HENRY COUNTY CITIZEN

HC CITIZEN HOME PAGE

2010-12-31T19:54:00.043-05:00

If you do not receive the Citizen Newsletter,
you are missing a lot!
Current events, Government, News & Commentary
Sign Up / Opt-In At Left

View or Download at www.Scribd.com/Henry_Citizen

This website is not updated often -- Read The Citizen

Editorial / Publication Policy

The Citizen Page - Your comments & Opinions

Henry County Citizens Voices
Click here to read & post

SPLOST III
Editorial Archive - Larry Stanley
Henry Wiki
Rep. Steve Davis, GA 109th
Steve's Blog
Senator John Douglas, GA 17th
Henry County Government

Henry Homeowners.com
====

Favorite LINKS

The Fayette Forum
Residents Against Improper Development
Henry/Clayton Legislative Delegations
Henry County Republican Party
Yellow Dog / Blue Dog Democrats
Henry Board of Commissioners
Henry County Code (August 2005)
Official Code of Georgia (OCGA)
Southeastern Legal Foundation
Fair Tax Website
Project Vote Smart
Email Your Congressman
The Henry Daily Herald
Henry Times
The Federalist Patriot
The Heritage Foundation
Revolution to Reconstruction
TownHall.com
Peach Pundit- Political Blog
Rush Limbaugh - El Rushbo
Sean Hannity - Get Hannitized
Neal Boortz - Atlanta's Own
Daily News - The Boortz Way

Editorial / Publication Policy

2009-08-31T17:41:00.006-04:00

Editorial / Pulbication Policy

Articles, comments and opinions are welcome and accepted. Please try to keep comments at a PG-13 level, on topic and refrain from personal attacks. Family members of public officials, unless they independently possess a public personality, position or notoriety are not acceptable subjects for submitted materials.

Articles, opinions and other material submitted to The Citizen may be edited for spelling and grammar. There is no desire to alter the original intent or meaning of any submission. Some rules must apply: Authors who perform spell check and review for grammatical problems will increase the probability of publication. Forwarded emails with prior Internet circulation have low probability of publication. Materials received in ALL CAPS will not be published.

The Citizen, its editor(s) and Henry Citizens for Responsible Government accept no responsibility for content submitted for publication with regard to original citation, authorship or source.

Private email addresses will never be sold, conveyed or shared for any commercial purpose. E-mail addresses are collected by The Citizen for subscription, opt-out or verification of identity. Authors desiring publication are required to use a valid e-mail address for those purposes. Submissions from anonymous sources are considered to be spam and will not be published.

Henry County Citizen web page and The Henry Citizen Newsletter are publications of Henry Citizens for Responsible Government, a registered Georgia political action committee. All rights reserved.

PAY PAL Confirmation Page

2008-12-21T11:36:00.001-05:00

Thank you for your donation. Your transaction has been completed, and a receipt for your purchase will be emailed to you.

You may log into your account at www.paypal.com/us to view details of this transaction.

The Citizen Page

2008-11-09T09:04:00.002-05:00

Use this page to write-in your own comments and opinions. The Henry Citizen Newsletter has gained a wide audience ....

Because it is your newsletter. Citizen prints your topics, your articles, your submissions and your opinions. News items specific to Henry County will always be a focal point. Yet, state and national topics of interest will also be included.

To that end Henry Citizen Newsletter will continue to publish news and commentary regarding the core principles of our nation: The US Constitution; Belief in America; The American Experience; Freedom and Liberty. There will be condemnation of Government Waste; Confiscatory taxation; and, Elected Officials who've earned disdain. Policies and Agendas are always open for comment and opinion. Citizen believes we must love and support our country always; our government only when it is earned.

The Henry Citizen Newsletter is a conservative publication currently distributed across the state. Thank you for making it a success.

Larry Stanley
Editor, Citizen Newsletter
Hc.citizen@hccitizen.org

Image Files

2008-07-24T17:50:00.005-04:00

Eagle, Logo, Etc

2008-06-29T20:27:00.004-04:00

Mathis Strikes Again

2008-06-21T15:28:00.005-04:00

$300 Million will Walk the Walk

In an earlier post titled Conflicts of Interest allegations were made tying Commissioner BJ Mathis to a controversial development in Hampton. Recall that her campaign office address is the same as Billy Abbate, managing member of Big 5 Enterprises.

The Henry Herald has caught on with today's article:

$300 million air park mired in controversial agreements

Mathis wants this deal to block airport expansion and she has made a new friend wanting a high density, mixed use development.

With Mathis' friends like Big 5 and Shailendra Group, one wonders what happened to her old platform of slow growth and low density. But then money - lots of money - walks the walk.
-----

I think we crossed Political Science 101 before, but here goes:

I would not accuse Mathis of taking a bribe or cash for personal use. But she has played the same game for several years: Use her office to secure political influence, campaign funding and a support base.

Let's revisit some facts Mathis supporters have so far ignored:

* SPLOST 3 road projects for Shailendra Group's proposed mall
* Jodeco bridge over I-75 for Shailendra Group's proposed mall
* High density zoning in District 2 - which she campaigned against
* Nash Farm, to include Friends of Nash incorporated in her name
* Life Management Department - remember the director was to be the daughter
of her campaign treasurer with a nice raise
* Performing for the camera at televised BoC meetings - like speaking to
the negative side of an issue, then voting to approve it
* Press releases and 'go-to' person for quotes in the Herald

For the love o' Mike, her campaign office is in the Big 5 building!

To the extent that her official actions serve herself and her campaign for Chairman far more than the good of the county, it is called malfeasance.

Both the FAA and Clayton Commission have problems with this development. Other than political gain, why would she take on that opposition?

See the political aspect of her motivations? NO, I do not believe she is that altruistic.
-----

It is a political boondoggle wherein Mathis is jockeying for Big 5.

From the BoC meeting minutes:

The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) resolved that this particular development is not in the best interest of the region do to the FAA. It was a split vote to recommend that this rezoning was not in the best interest.

The committee voted in opposition based on Clayton County’s
objection to the request. Clayton County objected to the project because they receive Federal Funding for the airport and the grant funding states they must object to any land use surrounding the airport that the FAA expresses concern over. Clayton County did their part in objecting.

So much for Mathis defending or enforcing established land use planning.

Worse than Entitlement

2008-06-20T16:31:00.002-04:00

Some time ago I wrote a piece about a class of people who deem themselves entitled to certain position, authority or influence. I was talking about the ruling class, or moneyed class and the folks who have nothing to do but figure out how to control others. Surely, they are still with us. But there is another, equally sinister group: candidates for office.

Combine the ego and ambition of the two groups and the citizenry is surely doomed. The yard sign incident was almost laughable. Who thought a candidate would even care so long as he got sufficient visibility from the location. By the way, another candidate was similarly pressured, but reminded the supporter about personal and public character and integrity – nice touch. Yet a combined strategic force similar to F-22 fighter jocks taking orders from Gen. Chuck Horner converged this campaign season.

If you are not with me… There are candidates for office who even try to influence their friends inappropriately. The brow beating goes like this, “Yeah, but why would you sell your wares to so-and-so? He is my opponent! I don’t care how you make a living; I have a campaign to run. You know I will remember this after the election!”

Then there is the honest, wholesome approach that sends some supporters on a nut-job tirade. Their candidate is the God fearing community icon who uses their church affiliation like a badge of political honor. Let a reporter or blogger write something they don’t like and stand back. The writer must be paid-off. The publication owner must be biased and unfair. Everyone who is “not with me” is a liar!

In a time not so long ago it would have been my sworn duty to report every candidate’s name and lambaste them for such arrogance. But now I am also trapped by friendships and loyalties. I must now protect my sources. But you already know who I am talking about.

A Look at the Dark Side

2008-06-15T09:25:00.003-04:00

Mathis The Manipulator

We Americans do not stand in awe of anyone for very long. We recognize official authority and we respect the positions into which we elect our representatives. These people, like all people, are no more important to God Almighty than a sparrow. But they are placed in positions of responsibility and they will guide public policy on our behalf. That is why we elevate them, trust them and even judge them against a higher expectation of civic duty.

Commissioner Elizabeth “BJ” Mathis has proven time and again that she runs her own agendas. Facts or protocol or integrity be damned. Now she wants to be Chairman of the board of commissioners.

Review some of the situations through links below. A few idioms come to mind, like Nixonian or even Machiavelian. Few county commissioners have matched her penchant for connivance or manipulation. Mathis has proven she is unfit for public service; let’s send her packing with our votes.

A Tangled Web: The Mathis Strategy
Malfeasance in Office: BJ Mathis
County Website Updated
Mathis Sues Henry County
Kudos to the Board
Conflicts of Interest
Mathis vs. Integrity
The Legacy of a County Commissioner
The Battlefield Committee
New MALL on Jodeco Road
Forum on I-75
Lamar Institute Report to the BoC
The Financial Losses of Nash Farm
Nash Farm on WSB-TV
The Civil War in Henry County
Lovejoy in September 1864
Henry Borrows from Clayton’s Heritage

Response Notice

2008-06-14T22:14:00.005-04:00

On June 14th, the deadline date for candidate responses, I was informed that Mr. Auletta's responses were one-half completed. I was also contacted by Mr.Tanner stating he was working on the responses.

In fairness to the campaigns of other candidates Michael Eddy and Jim Joyner, their responses have been published as advertised.

When Mr. Auletta's and/or Mr. Tanner's responses arrive they will be published with the caveat that other candidate responses were previously made public.

EddyResponses

2008-06-14T09:53:00.003-04:00

Response to Concerned Citizens for Responsible Government

Michael Eddy

I. Fiscal Responsibility

A. Do you call yourself a fiscal conservative? Why or why not?

Absolutely. The most important responsibility any commissioner has is to remember their fiduciary responsibility to the people. Commissioners are charged to be good stewards of the peoples’ money. As chairman, I will work to lower our tax responsibilities, which is a major hindrance to economic growth in Henry County.

B. Do you believe economic studies should be performed as part of growth management policies?

Economic studies should be systematically and consistently used to inform our economic growth as well as the impact development creates within the county. As a county, we need to use real data to inform decisions. A longitudinal study that assists us in realizing how our long-term plans have or have not been effective.

C. As a countywide priority, what is your position on project creep (growing expenditures beyond the originally announced costs or project description) at parks, athletic venues and other facilities? Specific references would be Heritage Park, Moseley Park and Holder Park.

It is outrageous how our commissioners have allowed SPLOST projects to escalate to costs equaling almost twice their projected costs. The general budget has been continuously exhausted for projects that were not originally appropriated. As chairman, I would ask for a monthly account of collected impact fees to be published for Henry County citizens.
Additionally, I would ensure that collected fees were used for its intended purposes, to provide funding for park, etc. SPLOST needs to accurately estimate cost and ensure that projects are completed on budget

D. Is it appropriate for the county to spend tax dollars to provide venues or facilities that could be provided by private enterprise?

It is appropriate to use tax dollars for public use. By utilizing an economic study, commissioners can make more informed decisions as to the long term cost benefit or expenditure on all projects. If it is determined that a private enterprise can provide a better project in terms of facility and still provide our citizens a reasonable and appropriate cost/service, then we should allow private enterprise to provide such a
service. Public/Private partnerships will be necessary in the future.

E. What specific actions or programs would you implement toward enticing a broader base of businesses to the county?

The two most important steps that we must take action on are to work vigorously on improving transportation and to lower our tax liabilities for business and our citizens. These two areas represent the largest hindrance to our county. We must continue to support the Board of Education so that we can control growth and continue to provide a safe community.

II. Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax

A. Have you read the state laws (OCGA Title 48) or relevant cases (i.e., Dickey v. Storey) pertaining to a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST)?

The Dickey v. Storey case speaks to the commission’s fiduciary responsibilities. This case speaks to the need to make decisions based on accurate information. AS chairman, I will continue to ensure that our Board of Commissioners will not start and abandon projects. We will be sure that each and every project is a part of Henry County’s long term plans and that each project will be completed on time and on estimate.

B. What is your position on whether the county should impose a SPLOST?

SPLOST is a good way for non-residents to contribute to Henry County’s long-term plans. SPLOST money should be used responsibly and used for appropriated projects. For our taxpayers, we should adopt a budget that lowers our obligated property taxes since we are essentially taxed twice.

C. Should SPLOST revenues be considered as a supplement to the county’s general fund?

By law, SPLOST funding is not to be used to supplement the county’s general fund for maintenance and operations.

D. Should SPLOST revenues be used to offset property taxes?

Using the Haugen v. Henry County case as a barometer, if SPLOST projects are completed at estimated costs, and the county is able to complete all projects specified in the resolution imposing the tax, then the Board of Commissioners should use excess funds to reduce property tax. It is again the fiduciary responsibility of the Board to use accurate estimates on projects and complete them on budget.

E. Should SPLOST revenues be dedicated solely to projects specifically named on the referendum ballot?

SPLOST revenue must be dedicated and spent on projects specified in the resolution imposing the tax. Again this is further supported in 48-8-121.

F. Should SPLOST revenues be used at the commissioners’ discretion as priorities change over time?

Discretion shall only be granted in terms of project location allocation, however the real cost of projects need to meet estimated cost.

G. Has the county fulfilled citizens’ expectations through the last two SPLOST programs?

The county has a number of projects that were not started or completed in the last two SPLOST programs. When the Board adopted the SPLOST project list, the estimated costs should have been accurate in order to complete projects that the voters expected to be completed by the end of the program. Between SPLOST II and SPLOST I, projects that were listed and not completed should have been added to the new SPLOST list. Again the project list was what the voters expected to be completed when the SPLOST was accepted.

H. As Chairman, are there any changes you would make regarding management of SPLOST revenues?

As chairman, I will ask for the SPLOST department to provide cost estimates to have projects bid as one package and compare the savings or additional expenditures to the “piece meal” method. Furthermore, all costs will be examined to ensure that estimates and real costs are more aligned. We need to ensure that we complete the projects that we told the voters that we would complete.

I. Should a ballot question used for a SPLOST referendum be intentionally vague, depriving voter’s realistic fair notice of the projects for which revenues may be used?

The resolution that imposed the tax should specifically
outline the projects that said SPLOST would include. SPLOST funds are the
funds of the people and we owe it to our citizens to provide to them accurate
information.

III. Zoning and Development

A. Do you agree with the statements of current and past commissioners that “We cannot legally consider impact to infrastructure like schools or roads when making zoning or development decisions?”

It is our obligation to consider the impact that development will make on the school system. The Georgia Supreme Court has furthered supported this notion in their decision that schools can be one of other reasons to deny development. Our schools are past capacity and in fact it will take many years for the school system to be ahead of our growth. As a tax payer, we expect all agencies to work together and in my opinion, the Board of Commissioners have systematically kept our children from receiving the best education available. As an educator, I believe the school system has done a tremendous job considering the overcrowded schools created by the board of Commissioners. Roads play a major role on infrastructure. Ordinances
are in place to mitigate traffic congestion and in order to legally approve development; roads must be upgraded to handle additional traffic counts from new
development. As chairman, I will work with staff to create an ordinance that will ensure that our road classification meets state guidelines and creates a grading system where development must upgrade impacted roads to meet vehicle county requirements.

B. Would you support incorporation and adoption of OCGA 36-67-3 as local legislation or local ordinance, thereby reinforcing infrastructure as a required (as opposed to optional) consideration in zoning decisions?

The Planning and Zoning Department does complete an analysis of each requested rezoning or variance. While serving on the Zoning Advisory Board, countless times the Board appropriately and consistently supported the recommendation of the professionals in the Planning Department.
The Board of Commissioners has not consistently upheld staffs’ recommendations,
allowing a true departure from the Future Land Use map and the Joint Comprehensive Plan. As chairman, I will support both the Future Land Use Map and the Unified Land Development Code. I support GA code 36-67-3. Henry County needs to reassess the fee structure for zoning requests. This will allow equitable treatment of all rezoning and variance requests.

C. Do you believe that existing school enrollment numbers should be a restricting factor in approving residential development in that school zone?

As supported by the Georgia Supreme Court, capacity of school should be used to offer a better education for our children.

D. Do you believe that existing road designations (artery, connector, etc.) are correctly or effectively assigned?

The Comprehensive Transportation Plan should correctly designate road classifications. In the 1993 Plan, the county failed to use the state’s road classification which has financially impacted our county by not granting us available funding. As we continue to move forward, correct road classification is necessary for future alternative funding.

E. Do you believe existing road infrastructure and traffic congestion should be a determining factor in zoning and development decisions?

The proposed Unified Land Development Code will begin to address road infrastructure. With a system of grading based on vehicular traffic counts, development will have necessary information to improve road upgrades that will be created by new development.

F. Do you believe that retail development brings sufficient overall benefit to allow it before requiring road improvements?

Road improvements should be completed before retail development is complete. The Jonesboro Road development should not be repeated in terms of allowing road improvements to be completed after retail is operating. Development before roads creates an undue hardship on citizens.

G. What is your position on modifying zoning approvals with conditions or variances that tangibly allow, for example, an R-1 to be developed as R-2?

The county needs to set standards for all development which will be supported by the Unified Land Development Code. For the last several years, each District has worked independently in relation to development standards or property conditions. As a county, we need to adopt conditions for development that are consistent throughout the county. One practice that needs to end is illegally eliminating allowable commercial uses under specific zonings. The ordinance allows such use, and then by law we should allow them.

H. Do you believe a landowner’s “Constitutional rights” require approval of a desired development or use, if it is not consistent with county ordinances?

If a request is not consistent with the vision of the Future Land Use Map or the Unified Land Development Code, then the development should not be approved. Furthermore if the development affects the health and general welfare of the public, it should not be approved.

I. What is your position concerning our county’s history of granting higher density development because of sewer availability? Do you believe our county ordinances “allow” higher density, or “require” it?

Henry County has by situation created a misconception that sewer does override the Future Land Use Map and Unified Land Development Code. The extension of sewer is best for the health of our citizens and our wildlife, however it should not create the precedence that sewer requires higher density. Through the use of pumping stations, larger lots can appropriately accommodate sewer.

IV. Transportation

A. Describe Henry County’s greatest transportation needs today.

Henry County’s greatest need is relief from I-75. We need, in no particular order, to create a major North/South arterial on the west side of I-75, created more connecting frontage roads, expansion of an additional major East/West arterial, implement improvements to SR 42 corridor, and continued paving/improvement to local roads and intersections.

B. What policies would you work to implement toward resolving Henry’s transportation needs?

Full implementation of the Comprehensive Transportation Plan will be a start to strengthening our county’s policies in transportation. The plan provides a wealth of information and clearly articulates strategies and policies that will improve our long-term goals.

C. Do you believe intersection improvements, road widening and new roads should be a higher priority than parks or other facilities?

Parks should be supported by impact fees. In our current SPLOST, transportation should have represented approximately 80% of the anticipated SPLOST revenue. We need to focus more of our available funding into transportation.

D. Do you support adding lanes to I-75?

Adding an additional lane to I-75 may provide short-term relief, but we need to improve our county road system to keep Henry County citizens from using I-75 as a local road. I-75 will always be a priority, but is a regional transportation concern.

E. Do you believe that development of all types should be held financially responsible for road and intersection improvements adjacent to the developed property?

All new development that will place more vehicles on adjacent roads, impacting traffic, should pay for needed improvements. As mentioned previously, through a process of selecting levels that correspond to vehicle counts such as level A, B, C, etc., transportation officials and developers can ensure proper improvements to proactively address road/intersection improvements.

F. Do you agree that transportation impact fees should be imposed and designated for use in the specific area of impact?

I do not support the collection of impact fees for transportation. The Board of Commissioners does not effectively inform the public or the applicants how collected impacted fees have been spent. It will be a more effective process and will not require additional county personnel if the applicants are required to improve specific road(s) or intersection(s) according to HCDOT recommendations. Through the process of establishing a leveled system according to vehicular counts, the process will be seamless. With the current situation of roads, the county would not be
able to collect impact fees for already failing roads.

G. What is your position on whether or how the county has used transportation dollars to promote development?

The county has not used transportation dollars to promote development. When the opportunity arises, the county should enter into a public/private partnership to meet the long-term goal of the county as well as the long-term goal of the development.

V. Economic Development

A. What do you see as Henry County’s greatest economic base today?

Henry County’s greatest economic base is our access to the interstate system, our close proximity to Hartsfield/Atlanta Airport, access to the Savannah Port, and our focus on continuing to improve the education system.

B. What do you see as Henry County’s greatest economic liability today?

Our biggest liability is the number of residents that have to drive outside of Henry County for employment.

C. Would you propose changing our trend toward retail malls in favor of more technology, financial or manufacturing companies?

Our economic future is dependent upon diversifying business in Henry County. To continue to be a thriving and aggressive county, we need to attract higher median income jobs from the innovative technology fields. As a county, we are certainly not short of available retail centers. Many “strip centers” sit empty.

D. What policies, if any, would you work to implement that would raise median income family income in Henry?

The biggest policy change has to be that the Board of Commissioners will aggressively invest into expanding our business base. This will require more financial support from the BOC and a stronger role from not just the BOC, but also with the Development Authority. The BOC needs to further research the cost and benefit to adding fiber optics as a component to our business solutions.

E. Do you believe Henry is well served by retail development that offers low-paying jobs and entices low-cost workforce housing?

Henry County is served with a large cross-section of what I consider to be lower-end retail. As our community grows and becomes more diverse economically, we need to attract higher-end retail. In order for this to happen, our median income level needs to continue to rise. The BOC needs to implement a system to monitor the number of available strip center retail available and specifically the amount of available retail space by area. This will better manage our resources and control from unwarranted
and unnecessary retail space.

F. There is an argument that commercial development eventually brings sufficient tax revenues for infrastructure improvement. Do you believe Henry is well served by retail malls even when existing roads will not accommodate the increased traffic?

All development should contribute needed improvements resulting from the business. The BOC, the Water Authority, etc., should publish each month the amount of impact fees collected and how the funds have been used.

VI. Grants and Local Projects

A. What emphasis is currently placed on securing grants from private industry, state or federal agencies toward financing local projects?

The grant process in Henry County appears to be random acts of funding solutions. The county has and continues to lobby for federal funding through the Atlanta Regional Commission. Grant funding should be aligned with specific project needs and goals of the county. There should be a clear understanding of what obligations the county will have to fulfill. It is imperative the county realize what in-kind services or matching funds that will be required.

B. Does the county currently have a grant department of specifically educated, certified or experienced grant administrator? What policies would you work to implement toward securing more grant funding?

To my knowledge, each department applies for grants that pertain to projects that they oversee. In order to further develop an efficient and cohesive central government, the county should retain the services of a qualified experienced grant administrator. This person will assist all grant requests and will work collaboratively with the BOC and all departments.

C. What policies would you work to implement toward securing more grant funding?

A grant policy should ensure that we have a need for the grant request and to be clear of any obligations that the BOC will have in order to qualify for the grant. Over the years the county has lost grant funding, i.e. livable communities initiative, because the BOC did not meet their obligation. Many grant opportunities are also dependent on maintaining current plans for transportation, land use, etc. We must continue to maintain clear communication in all departments.

D. What policies would you work to implement toward insuring that grant funds are considered ant integral part of financing all local projects?

By obtaining the services of a specialized experienced grant administrator, the county will have the resources to research and acquire grants for a variety of project needs.

VII. Ethics in Government

A. Do you believe a commissioner should recuse and exclude himself from influence, discussion and votes on any matter before the board if he received campaign funds from a concerned party?

A commissioner should recuse himself if the request will financially benefit him. I do believe that besides the contribution disclosure required on zoning application requests, that the commissioner who received a contribution should publicly state such. The constituents that the commissioner represents have the right to representation on every case. If the commissioner has the potential to financially benefit from a request, then the commissioner should recuse himself from
participating.

B Would you support a County Ethics Commission with authority and resources to investigate and possibly indict public officers and employees under Georgia’s Code of Ethics?

I support the continuance of the Georgia State Ethics Board in lieu of a county board. In matters pertaining to elected officials, it is best to bring the complaint to a neutral party. As long as local elected officials are granted the right to appoint members to a local ethics board, the board cannot be neutral. As far as authority to indict, the public is represented as a part of a grand jury and any indictment for criminal wrong doing needs to remain under the auspices of the District Attorney. In terms of employees, ethics violations need to be referred to the state for investigation.

C. What is your position on appointing members to boards and authorities, such as the water authority or development authority, when those appointees will be in a position to use otherwise privileged information to enhance their own business pursuits?

Appointees to any board or authority should be held to the same standards as any elected official. Henry County needs to adopt local ethics standards that outline the conduct of board appointees.

D. What is your position regarding an elected official or county employee who maintains a private business relationship with another official or employee, their spouse or other close relative?

Elected officials are held under obligation of ethical expectations. I encourage any citizen to report any misconduct to the Georgia State Ethics Board for investigation. If an elected official will financially benefit from a specific business venture or partnership that is deemed a conflict of interest, then sanctions may be enacted by the state Board to equitably resolve the issue.

VIII. Taxes

A. Henry County has the fourth highest taxes in the metro area. What, if anything, would you propose to lower property taxes?

First, examine the operating budget to find any line items where the BOC can reduce expenditures. Second, expand our business opportunities in Henry County. The bulk of the tax revenue is generated from residential property and when we expand our business growth, we will be in a position to roll back the millage rate.

B. Property taxes are disproportionately increased based on assessments, which are called “backdoor tax increase.” In the current housing market downturn with a 3 to 4 year housing inventory, how would you explain current increases in assessments and therefore taxes?

Housing assessments are based on January digest of values. As I understand, the assessment process is a comparative method and has internal controls so that the assessment is not arbitrary, but is calculated at the 40% fair-market value multiplied by the millage rate for each entity. The important safeguard is the opportunity to appeal your tax assessment. This provides another step in ensuring fair
assessment.

C. In your opinion, what are the primary functions of government and what are the top priorities for spending tax dollars?

The primary function of government is to provide public safety, education, transportation, health and human services, and promote the resources of the county. The BOC does not over-see education except to promote the expansion of post-secondary options and to work in collaboratively with the BOE. The remaining services are the function of the BOC and represent the main responsibility and focus of the county budget. Above all other services, public safety is the most important function.

D. Define and discuss Health, Safety, and Welfare as each pertains to expenditures of tax revenues.

Public Safety is the most important function of the county government. As the county continues to grow, these functions must grow commensurate with the population. Public safety is an area that cannot be cut for the safety of our citizens. Health and welfare are also functions that allow us to expand the quality of life for many citizens. We need to provide care at our health department for those who may need medical help, mental help, etc. Our mental health department operates on a very lean budget with very little personnel. The BOC needs to collaborate with Henry Medical Center to ensure that proper medical staff is available to the health services department on a regular basis. One idea I would like to explore is to add a county extension to provide assistance to veterans as the city of McDonough has begun. Our veterans need and deserve our assistance as they return from combat.

E. We are told almost annually that “the county budget is tight.” Since the board of commissioners sets the budget, how would you respond to that statement?

Every budget should be tight. The problem that has occurred is that the “needs” and “wants” for the county government has become less clear. The reserve budget should be healthy in order to maintain a high bond rating. Any budget requests beyond the allocation, should be discussed and the realization that “no” is an acceptable answer. As a school principal, I truly have to use the less is more philosophy when it comes to finance.

F. What is your position on residential tax revenues as opposed to costs of needed services?

The residents of Henry County pay the lion’s share of
taxes. With new development contributing to impact fees and transportation
improvements, we are beginning to share the overall services burden. The
more quality businesses we can attract to Henry County, the less residents
should have to pay for services thus lower their tax liability. The BOC
must prioritize needed services in order of their function to ensure that we are
providing what the citizens expect and need.

G. What, if any, actions could have been taken by the BOC so that the BOE tax millage would not be at its highest legal limit?

The greatest step would be for the BOC to consistently uphold the FLUM and control density and population across the county. By making drastic changes to rural communities, the BOC has indeed burdened the BOE financially. Not only does the BOE provide transportation, but they must provide portable classrooms. The BOE must hire additional staff beyond teachers to provide children a quality education. The millage rate is high due to the percentage of growth and the funds needed to provide a quality education. The most precious resource we have today is our children and they deserve the best. The FLUM must be adhered to; it should be more than a guide.

H. What public benefit is derived from the one-mill annual tax to Henry Medical Center?

I believe that the generated funds from the one mill may go to either general hospital operating expenses and or to funding care for patience that cannot pay. This may also be used for indigent care. We have an obligation to provide care to anyone in need through the hospital. Henry Medical Center serves our community well and provides needed medical services. The HMC Foundation is focused on raising funds
for the hospital to expand facilities, technology and equipment, education, etc.

I. Regarding public/private development projects, how is it justifiable to provide tax revenues to a private business venture?

Private companies must answer to the government that contracted with them. Additionally, private industry does have to be accountable to various regulators as well as the media. I believe that it is in the best interest of the private company to perform a quality service as a contractor. While the private business may provide the initial funding for capital improvements, there must be a means of repayment of this investment over the long term of the partnership. The private business income stream can be generated by a variety of sources (fees, tolls, or a wide range of additional options), but must be assured for the length of the partnership. This
partnership allows governments to move ahead projects especially in difficult economic times, as we are experiencing today. As long as the payments back to the private company are for reasonable services that were provided, using public funding is allowable.

J. What public benefit is derived from giving the Convention & Visitors Bureau tax monies when that private organization is under no obligation or accountability to make public any information regarding income, expenditures, or members? As a follow up, what is the justification for giving tax monies to a private organization whose stated purpose is to lobby state and local governments?

Henry County Convention & Visitors Bureau is one facet of our economic plan that markets Henry County’s attractions and amenities. Like the Chamber of Commerce, they are a soft sell for the county, attracting visitors to spend money in Henry County. As a non-profit organization, they must adhere to state and federal governance regarding their non-profit status. A committee consisting of representatives from various businesses and public officials guides this organization. The HCCVB’s purpose is to promote our attractions and amenities, not to lobby state
and local governments.

JoynerResponses

2008-06-14T09:17:00.005-04:00

Response to Concerned Citizens for Responsible Government
Jim Joyner

A. Why do you want to serve as Chairman?

To provide experience and leadership for Henry County government, based on my successful business practices, 10 years experience on the Commission (6 years as Chairman), and my commitment to the people of Henry County.

B. What personal or professional traits, experiences or abilities distinguish you?

I have more experience as a county commissioner and as chairman than any candidate, and have no “learning curve” for the chairman position. Additionally, I am a proven, successful businessman; have construction/engineering/infrastructure skills, and am a committed budget manager.

C. What specific existing policies would you work to change?

Although unwritten, the Board of Commissioners seems to have a policy of over-hiring many people to do the job that can be performed by one. This needs budget-minded scrutiny which I have done many times, and will continue to do.

D. What specific new policies would you work to implement?

It is time to reduce the overwhelming bureaucracy that seems to be prevalent in our county government. It is also time to implement strict cost constraints and oversight on all expenditures.

1. Fiscal Responsibility

A. Do you call yourself a fiscal conservative? Why or why not?

Absolutely! I am a conservative when it comes to spending the public’s money, but am adamant about serving the public’s needs.

B. Do you believe economic studies should be performed as part of growth Management policies?

Economic study must be part of any growth management policy, in order to ensure all projections are sound, responsible, cost-effective and realistic.

Heritage Park is a prime example of “money gone wild,” and I will not tolerate such overspending on any project via change to the original concept. This type of “project creep” is not acceptable. Unfortunately, material costs can influence project costs due to world markets, but these costs must be effectively managed.

D. Is it appropriate for the county to spend tax dollars to provide venues or facilities that could be provided by private enterprise?

This is an open-ended issue, but the Nash Farm Battlefield is an example of how NOT To spend tax dollars.

E. What specific actions or programs would you implement toward enticing a broader base of businesses to the county?

We need to make better use of our Industrial Development Authority, and work closer with the Georgia Dept of Industry and Trade to attract more business to Henry County. Partnering with these agencies can help determine incentives necessary to attract quality business and industry and expand employment opportunities.

2. Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax

A. Have you read the state laws (OCGA Title 48) or relevant cases (i.e., Dickey v. Storey) pertaining to a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST)?

Not familiar with this.

B. What is your position on whether the county should impose a SPLOST?

I am in favor of letting the citizens of the county vote on whether or not to implement a SPLOST, and if so, how the monies should be spent.

C. Should SPLOST revenues be considered as a supplement the county’s General Fund?

In that projects approved by SPLOST are funded outside of
the county’s general fund, yes. But if additional funding is necessary to
augment approved projects, the county should budget for this.

D. Should SPLOST revenues be used to offset property taxes?

Yes. In fact, SPLOST and LOST revenues already offset property taxes because non-property tax funding is used to pay for approved projects.

E. Should SPLOST revenues be dedicated solely to projects specifically named on the referendum ballot?

Yes.

F. Should SPLOST revenues be used at the commissioners’ discretion as priorities change over time?

Committed projects have to be completed as per the SPLOST, however, if the projects are later deemed unbuildable or cannot be fulfilled, the commissioners should go back to the SPLOST committee to determine replacement projects, or priorities.

G. Has the county fulfilled citizens’ expectations through the last two SPLOST programs?

For the most part, yes. The exceptions would be if projects ran into cost overruns or estimates changed, and funding ran out.

H. As Chairman are there any changes you would make regarding management of SPLOST revenues?

In order to get projects moving, and avoid inflationary increases, it is often imperative to use effective bonding procedures.

I. Should a ballot question used for a SPLOST referendum be intentionally vague, depriving voters realistic fair notice of the projects for which revenues may be used?

No.

3. Zoning & Development

A. Do you agree with the statements of current and past commissioners that “We cannot legally consider impact to infrastructure like schools or roads when making zoning or development decisions?”

Past county attorneys have advised commissioners that this is the law. I don’t necessarily agree with this, but the law must be adhered to. Even though the law is specific, zoning has such an impact on schools and roads, the impact on these should be considered.

B. Would you support incorporation and adoption of OCGA § 36-67-3 as local legislation or local ordinance, thereby reinforcing infrastructure as a required (as opposed to optional) consideration in zoning decisions?

Yes.

C. Do you believe that existing school enrollment numbers should be a restricting factor in approving residential development in that school zone?

Yes

D. Do you believe that existing road designations (artery, connector, etc.) are correctly or effectively assigned?

Yes, but such designations should be reviewed on a regular basis.

E. Do you believe existing road infrastructure and traffic congestion should be a determining factor in zoning and development decisions?

Yes.

F. Do you believe that retail development brings sufficient overall benefit to allow it before requiring road improvements?

This is situation-dependent, and must be decided on a case-by-case basis to be determined on the impact of the retail establishment.

G. What is your position on modifying zoning approvals with conditions or variances that tangibly allow, for example, an R-1 to be developed as R-2?

Zoning must adhere to the conditions of the code, wherein substantial variances, for example, don’t allow R-2 zoning in an R-1 area.

H. Do you believe a land owner’s “Constitutional rights” require approval of a desired development or use, if it is not consistent with county ordinances?

The county ordinances are the guiding principle, where they don’t infringe on anyone’s Constitutional Rights. The Land Use Plan should be the guide for zonings.

Sewer availability would often allow different density than non-sewered property. I believe in such instances consideration should be given to higher…but not high…density.

4. Transportation Issues

A. Describe Henry County’s greatest transportation needs today.

My TOP priority is roads, roads, and roads. Expand them, build them, resurface them, add turn lanes, provide more traffic control devices, eliminate traffic tie-ups, offer more major and minor alternate routes, and do it all within budget, without raising taxes.

B. What policies would you work to implement toward resolving Henry’s transportation needs?

Ensure that we obtain funding from all available agencies to move our projects forward.

C. Do you believe intersection improvements, road widening and new roads should be a higher priority than parks or other facilities?

We need roads to get to the parks and facilities.

D. Do you support adding lanes to I-75?

Yes.

E. Do you believe that development of all types should be held financially responsible for road and intersection improvements adjacent to the developed property?

Yes, already required by ordinance.

F. Do you agree that transportation impact fees should be imposed and designated for use in the specific area of impact?

Yes, as necessary and fair.

G. What is your position on whether or how the county has used transportation dollars to promote development?

Not familiar with this issue.

5. Economic Development

A. What do you see as Henry County’s greatest economic base today?

Shopping centers and large-scale retail sales (provide both sales taxes and property taxes).

B. What do you see as Henry County’s greatest economic liability today?

Accelerated depreciation of property values due to foreclosures and negative economic influences.

C. Would you propose changing our trend toward retail malls in favor of more technology, financial or manufacturing companies?

Yes. This is why we need to improve Henry County’s “sales pitch” to high-tech, financial and manufacturing companies.

D. What policies, if any, would you work to implement that would raise median family income in Henry?

See “C” above, and provide a live-work-play community. This will reduce travel and fuel costs for families having to commute out of county for employment.

E. Do you believe Henry is well served by retail development that offers low-
paying jobs and entices low-cost workforce housing?

While we may not be “best-served,” at least these establishments provide some jobs, but we need to attract better paying retailers and employers.

F. There is an argument that commercial development eventually brings sufficient tax revenues for infrastructure improvement. Do you believe Henry is well served by retail malls even when exiting roads will not accommodate the increased traffic?

In general, yes. However, if traffic becomes a problem we need to seek funding to improve the traffic issues. We can’t lose sight of the fact that these malls bring in significant sales taxes and property taxes.

6. Grants and Local Projects

A. What emphasis is currently placed on securing grants from private industry,
state or federal agencies toward financing local projects?

B. Does the county currently have a grant department or specifically educated,
certified or experienced grant administrator?

In some area, but not all departments.

C. What policies would you work to implement toward securing more grant
funding?

Hire outside, professional grant-writers. They get a percentage of the grants obtained…no grant…no commission..

D. What policies would you work to implement toward insuring that grant funds
are considered an integral part of financing all local projects?

Grants aren’t available in all areas, however we should pursue them where applicable.

7. Ethics in Government

A. Do you believe a commissioner should recuse and exclude himself from influence, discussion and votes on any matter before the board if he received campaign funds from a concerned party?

No. However, all parties giving campaign funds should be advised that such funding buys no votes or special, favorable treatment.

B. Would you support a County Ethics Commission with authority and resources to investigate and possibly indict public officers and employees under Georgia’s Code of Ethics?

Yes.

We have to be emphatic to appointees that they have to recuse themselves from issues where they could get personal or financial gain.

D. What is your position regarding an elected official or county employee who
maintains a private business relationship with another official or employee, their spouse or other close relative?

This would have to be addressed on a case-by-case basis. If there is no conflict of interest, there should be no issue.

E. Regarding Question D, should such relationship prohibit a business or partner from being awarded contracts or other compensation from the county?

Yes.

8. Taxes (from all sources)

A. Henry County has the fourth highest taxes in the metro area. What, if anything, would you propose to lower property taxes?

Work toward this goal.

B. Property taxes are disproportionately increased based on assessments, which
are called a “backdoor tax increase.” In the current housing market downturn with a 3 to 4 year housing inventory, how would you explain current increases in assessments and therefore taxes?

There is NO logical explanation. Our board of tax assessors need to be strongly challenged on these increased assessments.

C. In your opinion, what are the primary functions of government and what are
the top priorities for spending tax dollars?

Serve the people, use their tax dollars wisely, provide a safe and secure living environment.

D. Define and discuss Health, Safety and Welfare as each pertains to expenditures of tax revenues.

See “C” above.

E. We are told almost annually that “the county budget is tight.” Since the board of commissioners sets the budget, how would you respond to that statement? What official actions would alleviate the impression or belief that revenue is too low?

We must communicate with the citizens regarding what is needed, what is requested, and how they are to be paid for. Keeping the people informed and ensuring budget control will balance the revenues with expenditures, and let the people know the realities of what we can afford.

F. The president of Henry County’s Chamber of Commerce was once quoted in the press as saying, “We grow houses.” What is your position on residential tax revenues as opposed to costs of needed services?

One of the problems with government vs. business is that government provides a NON-PROFIT service to its citizens. We cannot put the burden of providing services totally on the backs of the property –tax payers. That points out the importance of large-scale retail establishments and other businesses which augment our property tax base.

G. What, if any, actions could have been taken by the board of commissioners so that the Board of Education tax millage would not be at its highest legal limit?

State law allows the BOE to raise their own millage and they must be held accountable for their actions.

H. What public benefit is derived from the one-mil annual tax given to Henry Medical Center? Is the cost justified or acceptable while there is no representation on the HMC board and no voting authority within the HMC Foundation?

While it may seem that the BOC has no representation on the HMC board, the BOC
nominates members to that board. The one-mil portion of the taxes goes
mainly toward indigent medical treatment (which is mandated by law), and in
fact, does not come close to covering these expenses.

I. Regarding public/private development projects, how is it justifiable to provide tax revenues to a private business venture? What, if any, safeguards can citizens be guaranteed regarding public ownership or return on investment?

This has to be considered as the issues arise. For example, this could be a situation where a major employer or higher education facility would come to the county, and they would reimburse the county over a pre-determined time. Safeguards would have to be built into the contract to ensure a strict compliance basis.

J. What public benefit is derived from giving the Convention & Visitors Bureau (Henry Chamber of Commerce) tax monies when that private organization is under no obligation or accountability to make public any information regarding income, expenditures or members? As a follow-up, what is the justification for giving tax monies to a private organization whose stated purpose is to lobby state and local governments.

The money collected for this comes from the hotel-motel tax, which by law, has to be collected by the local governing authority and used for promotion of Henry County (as the motel owners say “To put heads in beds).”

BoC-Questions

2008-06-10T22:03:00.002-04:00

Questions to be posed to candidates for Chairman
of the Henry County Board of Commissioners

The following questions are divided into sections designed to reveal to voters the mindset of the candidate. Candidates are asked for honest, considered responses so that voters will have fair notice of the intentions of our county’s next chief executive.

Candidates are asked to provide as much or as little information and opinion as they desire. Candidate responses for any listed topic are not limited to the stated questions. Candidates are free to express additional ideas and opinions on any topic not listed. It is hoped the candidates will demonstrate a willingness and ability to effectively communicate their positions and goals for the county.

Responses will not be edited or shared among the candidates prior to publication. The questions and responses will be published via the Internet and/or other media outlets.

Introduction

A. Why do you want to serve as Chairman?
B. What personal or professional traits, experiences or abilities distinguish you?
C. What specific existing policies would you work to change?
D. What specific new policies would you work to implement?

1. Fiscal Responsibility

A. Do you call yourself a fiscal conservative? Why or why not?
B. Do you believe economic studies should be performed as part of growth
management policies?
C. As a countywide priority, what is your position on project creep (growing
expenditures beyond the originally announced costs or project description)
at parks, athletic venues and other facilities? Specific references would be
Heritage Park, Moseley Park and Holder Park.
D. Is it appropriate for the county to spend tax dollars to provide venues or
facilities that could be provided by private enterprise?
E. What specific actions or programs would you implement toward enticing a
broader base of businesses to the county?

2. Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax

A. Have you read the state laws (OCGA Title 48) or relevant cases (i.e., Dickey
v. Storey) pertaining to a Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax
(SPLOST)?
B. What is your position on whether the county should impose a SPLOST?
C. Should SPLOST revenues be considered as a supplement the county’s general
fund?
D. Should SPLOST revenues be used to offset property taxes?
E. Should SPLOST revenues be dedicated solely to projects specifically named
on the referendum ballot?
F. Should SPLOST revenues be used at the commissioners’ discretion as priorities change over time?
G. Has the county fulfilled citizens’ expectations through the last two SPLOST
programs?
H. As Chairman are there any changes you would make regarding management
of SPLOST revenues?
I. Should a ballot question used for a SPLOST referendum be intentionally
vague, depriving voters realistic fair notice of the projects for which
revenues may be used?

3. Zoning & Development

A. Do you agree with the statements of current and past commissioners that “We
cannot legally consider impact to infrastructure like schools or roads when
making zoning or development decisions?”
B. Would you support incorporation and adoption of OCGA § 36-67-3 as local
legislation or local ordinance, thereby reinforcing infrastructure as a
required (as opposed to optional) consideration in zoning decisions?
C. Do you believe that existing school enrollment numbers should be a restricting
factor in approving residential development in that school zone?
D. Do you believe that existing road designations (artery, connector, etc.) are
correctly or effectively assigned?
E. Do you believe existing road infrastructure and traffic congestion should be a
determining factor in zoning and development decisions?
F. Do you believe that retail development brings sufficient overall benefit to
allow it before requiring road improvements?
G. What is your position on modifying zoning approvals with conditions or
variances that tangibly allow, for example, an R-1 to be developed as R-2?
H. Do you believe a land owner’s “Constitutional rights” require approval of a
desired development or use, if it is not consistent with county ordinances?
I. What is your position concerning our county’s history of granting higher
density development because of sewer availability? Do you believe our
county ordinances “allow” higher density, or “require” it?

4. Transportation Issues

A. Describe Henry County’s greatest transportation needs today.
B. What policies would you work to implement toward resolving Henry’s
transportation needs?
C. Do you believe intersection improvements, road widening and new roads
should be a higher priority than parks or other facilities?
D. Do you support adding lanes to I-75?
E. Do you believe that development of all types should be held financially
responsible for road and intersection improvements adjacent to the
developed property?
F. Do you agree that transportation impact fees should be imposed and
designated for use in the specific area of impact?
G. What is your position on whether or how the county has used transportation
dollars to promote development?

5. Economic Development

A. What do you see as Henry County’s greatest economic base today?
B. What do you see as Henry County’s greatest economic liability today?
C. Would you propose changing our trend toward retail malls in favor of more
technology, financial or manufacturing companies?
D. What policies, if any, would you work to implement that would raise
median family income in Henry?
E. Do you believe Henry is well served by retail development that offers low-
paying jobs and entices low-cost workforce housing?
F. There is an argument that commercial development eventually brings
sufficient tax revenues for infrastructure improvement. Do you believe
Henry is well served by retail malls even when exiting roads will not
accommodate the increased traffic?

6. Grants and Local Projects

A. What emphasis is currently placed on securing grants from private industry,
state or federal agencies toward financing local projects?
B. Does the county currently have a grant department or specifically educated,
certified or experienced grant administrator?
C. What policies would you work to implement toward securing more grant funding?
D. What policies would you work to implement toward insuring that grant funds
are considered an integral part of financing all local projects?

7. Ethics in Government

A. Do you believe a commissioner should recuse and exclude himself from influence,
discussion and votes on any matter before the board if he received campaign funds from a
concerned party?
B. Would you support a County Ethics Commission with authority and resources
to investigate and possibly indict public officers and employees under
Georgia’s Code of Ethics?
C. What is your position on appointing members to boards and authorities, such as the water
authority or development authority, when those appointees will be in a position to use
otherwise privileged information to enhance their own business pursuits?

D. What is your position regarding an elected official or county employee who
maintains a private business relationship with another official or
employee, their spouse or other close relative?
E. Regarding Question D, should such relationship prohibit a business or
partner from being awarded contracts or other compensation from the
county?

8. Taxes (from all sources)

A. Henry County has the fourth highest taxes in the metro area. What, if
anything, would you propose to lower property taxes?
B. Property taxes are disproportionately increased based on assessments, which
are called a “backdoor tax increase.” In the current housing market downturn with
a 3 to 4 year housing inventory, how would you explain current increases in
assessments and therefore taxes?
C. In your opinion, what are the primary functions of government and what are
the top priorities for spending tax dollars?
D. Define and discuss Health, Safety and Welfare as each pertains to
expenditures of tax revenues.
E. We are told almost annually that “the county budget is tight.” Since the board
of commissioners sets the budget, how would you respond to that
statement? What official actions would alleviate the impression or belief
that revenue is too low?
F. The president of Henry County’s Chamber of Commerce was once quoted in
the press as saying, “We grow houses.” What is your position on
residential tax revenues as opposed to costs of needed services?
G. What, if any, actions could have been taken by the board of commissioners so
that the Board of Education tax millage would not be at its highest legal
limit?
H. What public benefit is derived from the one-mil annual tax given to Henry
Medical Center? Is the cost justified or acceptable while there is no
representation on the HMC board and no voting authority within the HMC
Foundation?
I. Regarding public/private development projects, how is it justifiable to provide
tax revenues to a private business venture? What, if any, safeguards can
citizens be guaranteed regarding public ownership or return on
investment?
J. What public benefit is derived from giving the Convention & Visitors Bureau
(Henry Chamber of Commerce) tax monies when that private organization
is under no obligation or accountability to make public any information
regarding income, expenditures or members? As a follow-up, what is the
justification for giving tax monies to a private organization whose stated
purpose is to lobby state and local governments?

Tommy Smith

2008-06-10T14:42:00.002-04:00

Tommy Smith Responds to Queries

To the Citizens of Henry County,

My lifelong passion is public service. Andy Pipkin has served this county well and leaves a much respected Department. I would be honored to work with the staff he has assembled. Although most citizens don’t joyfully pay taxes, being elected Tax Commissioner would allow me to serve the citizens of Henry County in a courteous and efficient manner.

As Tax Commissioner, I plan to bring even better accessibility to the citizens of Henry County. We now have two satellite locations, one in Hampton and one in Locust Grove. I propose to offer additional satellite locations in Fairview, Ellenwood and Ola that would add to the convenience of the citizens in dealing with the office of the Tax Commissioner. Many of our citizens are not able to take care of their county business during regular business hours. I would work to offer extended and/or Saturday hours in alternating locations to better serve the public.

I would give citizens the opportunity to pay their taxes in person using a credit card. The transaction fee would have to be borne by the citizen electing this convenience but I believe that the option should be available.

As Tax Commissioner, my job would be to collect taxes imposed by governing authorities and to distribute these funds in a timely and efficient manner. There are several ways that a citizen can address taxes that they perceive as unfair. First, the Board of Tax Assessors is charged with the task of assessing property value. If a citizen believes the assessment is not accurate, there is an appeal process to be followed. If the citizen feels the assessment is fair but the tax assessed is excessive, they should contact the governing authority that sets the millage rate. The Tax Commissioner is an important liaison between the governing authority and the citizens. The Tax Commissioner accomplishes this task by sending timely notices of assessed taxes, diligently collecting the taxes due and providing that revenue collected for the services that are necessary for a community including fire and police, water, schools, hospitals and social services.

There are several bills being considered at the Capitol this session which will have an impact on taxes at the local level. Governor Purdue has proposed legislation to eliminate the State of Georgia’s portion of the ad valorem taxes. Although the savings would be small, this would be of benefit to the citizens of the county.

Another bill of particular interest this year is the proposal offered by House Speaker Richardson. The proposal is termed GREAT which stands for Georgia’s Repeal of Every Ad Valorem Tax. Although the idea of eliminating the ad valorem tax is appealing, there is no way to make up for the lost revenue other than additional sales tax. Of biggest concern to me and other citizens is that the state would collect the sales tax and then determine how the tax would be allocated among the counties. I believe that the decisions about how much money to collect and how it should be allocated is best left at the county level. Speaker Richardson has recently amended his plan to allow cities and counties to retain property taxes but would abolish school property taxes. I am not convinced there are enough safeguards to ensure that our public schools would receive their fair share of tax revenue. Although I applaud the effort of Speaker Richardson to adjust the tax structure, I am not convinced that his current proposal is the best solution.

Should you have any comments or questions, please e-mail or call me.
Thank you,

Tommy N. Smith
7 Fortson Drive
Hampton, Georgia 30228
tnssissy@yahoo.com
770-946-3278

David Curry

2008-06-10T14:39:00.001-04:00

David Curry Answers Some Queries

In communication with Mr. David Curry, candidate for Henry County Tax Commissioner, he offered the following responses:

Here are my thoughts, I certainly hope this helps. And by the way, you are correct. There are processes and rules that all Tax Commissioner’s must follow; yet I truly believe it is one of the most important and critical “public servant” elected offices in the county.

1. Why do you want the job of tax commissioner?

I’ve always wanted to make Henry County –the community where I grew up- a better place. My experience in real estate taught me that the Tax Commissioner’s office is probably the least powerful and most important elected office in the County. The tax commissioner can’t make laws or set tax rates –but every bit of County operations depends on taxes being collected honestly, fairly and with respect for the taxpayers. The tax commissioner must treat taxpayers as customers and needs to be focused on customer service. That’s the kind of person I am and that’s the kind of tax commissioner I’ll be.

2. What will you bring to the table that is different from your opponent(s)?

Andy Pipkin has done a fine job as tax commissioner, and I intend to build on those accomplishments. But I’ll also use the office to educate Henry County homeowners about how they can appeal their property taxes. I want every homeowner to know their options if they want to appeal their tax bill, and I want to give them some say in the amount they’re assessed on their taxes. I haven’t heard any specific proposals from any other candidates, but the tax commissioner’s office isn’t the type of office that needs a lot of politics. It’s really too important for old-style politics or politicians, and I intend to keep it that way.

3. Do you have positions on how assessments are made? (This is a hot spot, but I proved in previous appeals that MLS is often used. Home values are selectively increased based on age and location of the property)

The appraisal process needs to be fair, uniform and transparent for every single taxpayer. That means every property must be appraised using the same method, it needs to be an honest appraisal, and everyone needs to understand it. The property tax process begins with determining “fair market value.” That number is what a knowledgeable buyer would pay a willing seller for a property. That’s really a pretty simple concept, but if a homeowner can’t understand how somebody arrived at that number –then the rest of the process (the 40% assessment, the millage rate levy, etc.) just makes the homeowner madder and madder. And in a situation where somebody’s property taxes have gone up just because some bureaucrat says it should is the most infuriating situation a homeowner can be in, because it’s just not fair. Anyone who uses real estate data (whether from the MLS or FMLS or any other service) should be using sales data (not listing prices) in determining appraisals and comparable values. We’ve all heard the line about anyone who wants to assess me at a certain price ought to have to be willing to pay me that price –but if assessors use the actual data from the actual sales, that’s about as close to true fair market value as anyone is going to get.

Queries for Tax Commish Candidates

2008-06-10T14:36:00.005-04:00

Campaigns for Tax Commissioner

There are two candidates for Tax Commissioner: David Curry and Tommy Smith. Each man brings unique credentials and aspirations to the fore. Read the responses each provided to queries posed earlier:

David Curry Answers Some Queries

Tommy Smith Responds to Queries

The original posts and reader comments appeared at http://www.jasonpye.com/. Please use the pages here to comment or ask qwustions.

BoC Candidate Responses

2008-06-09T23:04:00.016-04:00

Please read the presentation below as it was given to each candidate. We hope to learn the background and policy directions through each candidate's responses:

READ THE RESPONSES: **Please Read This Notice **

Fred Auletta
Michael Eddy
Jim Joyner
Elizabeth "BJ" Mathis ..... No Response
Charles Mobley ..... No Response
Chuck Tanner ..... No Response

This page features questions posed to all candidates for Chairman of the Henry County Board of Commissioners. The Questions and Responses will appear together (single document) for each candidate.

View the questions posed to all six candidates

View the cross-post at jasonpye.com that received almost 100 reader comments -- before the candidates responded to the questions!

The chairmanship is the most contested race in the July primary. The attached request for response was sent to Chairman candidates:

View Their Websites:

Fred Auletta
Michael Eddy
Jim Joyner
BJ Mathis
Charles Mobley
Chuck Tanner

Candidates' responses are requested by Saturday, June 14th.The questions are presented by Henry Citizens for Responsible Government, a registered political action committee. The PAC has no party allegiance and seeks only to inform voters of pertinent information. The questions are divided into sections designed to reveal to voters the mindset of the candidate. Candidates are asked for honest, considered responses so that voters will have fair notice of the intentions of our county’s next chief executive.

Candidates are asked to provide as much or as little information and opinion as they desire. Candidate responses for any listed topic are not limited to the stated questions. Candidates are free to express additional ideas and opinions on any topic not listed. It is hoped the candidates will demonstrate a willingness and ability to effectively communicate their positions and goals for the county.

Responses will not be edited or shared among the candidates prior to publication. The questions and responses will be published via the Internet and/or other media outlets. Responses will not be published until all candidate's responses are received, unless individual candidates decline to respond by June 14, 2008.

Nash Farm Battle Not OVer

2008-02-26T16:23:00.002-05:00

The Henry Daily Herald published an article, County official and historian defend Nash Farm, on February 22, 2008. The article was a 'foolow-up' to the investigative report aired on WSB-TV on February 18th.

This letter is in regard to the Nash property controversy. The evidence refutes stories published by Henry County at their battlefield website and calls into question certain aspects of the LAMAR Institute report. The county’s overlay maps, troop positions and engagement details are not supported by the seventeen historical references cited in my analysis. In each case details are dramatized or misstated, and locations moved east or north in order to place focus onto the Nash property.

The allegation my analysis was prompted by friendship with any political candidate is insulting. Last fall when I spoke with Mr. Mobley about his campaign, Mrs. Mathis had already endorsed his candidacy. I am not working for either campaign. It is regrettable that Mrs. Mathis chose to politicize rather than refute the facts and details of my analysis.

The county has not conferred upon me an official title. I do not reside on county property or hunt relics. I do not write dramatized stories about the perils of war, or receive compensation from the county. Nor am I seeking elected office. Perhaps my credentials are not sufficient to challenge the County’s version of history.

My analysis cites established historical texts, official records and maps, portions of the LAMAR report and Mr. Evans’ book “Sherman’s Horsemen” to prove location, distance and direction of troop placements near Lovejoy. The 60-page analysis has been published at a local website for two months, and is also available in printed form.

I am seeking reversal of the designation as a battlefield. The integrity of the board of commissioners is at stake. It is therefore incumbent upon the County to refute my analysis, not with compensated opinion, but with established historical documentation.

Henry's Healthy Water Supply

2007-10-23T06:18:00.000-04:00

The mussels in Florida waters are like mine canaries. Their role in the 'water for humans' debate provides proof and confirmation that governments are not good stewards of our natural resources.

The profit-minded drive for unmanaged development has placed North Georgia in a precarious situation. A majority of people saw it coming years ago. We have known about the 17-year lawsuit between Georgia, Florida and Alabama. We have watched clear cutting. We have seen population grow and congestion multiply. Every school system in the Metro area is hosting trailer parks.

We have heard our fearless leaders proclaim, "It's just growing pains." What will their spin be when statewide or region-wide sanctions and redistribution of water rolls over us? Will Henry County's water supply continue to be reported as 'healthy?' Other than blaming some outside force and bemoaning the situation, will any of them accept responsibility for their own role in creating the problem?

The anti-everything crowd, to which county commissioners have accused me of belonging, are dismissed by state and local authorities. But the calls for prudence are now making sense. State & local governments have never wanted to manage so-called economic development. However, they have never had a plan for both short-term profit as well as protecting natural resources.

We have regarded water resources in the same way some view the threat of terrorism. So long as I am not affected today, so long as "staff" tells me we are ok, so long as I can get a press release (or a campaign contribution) from a new development I will go along with anything, praying I am out of office before calamity strikes.

Soldiers At War

2007-10-14T11:31:00.000-04:00

An AJC report Sunday tells about another US soldier facing an Article 32 hearing to determine whether the Army will press further with murder charges.
Army Specialist Christopher Phillip Shore, 25 years old, is a native of Winder.

We recently went through another of these dog and pony shows. The soldiers were found innocent, as they should. The Army is too pushed to protect so-called civil rights of people who will, without a moment’s regret, kill or maim our sons, daughters, husbands and wives.

We are dealing with American men and women, volunteers bearing arms to protect and defend the character and traditions of the United States. As a nation we must not overlook the honest dedication these people believe and act upon daily. We are giving our servicemen mixed signals and that is the problem.

Shore was in the darkness of a desert nighttime raid, in blinding smoke and dust, knocking down doors, hunting for suspected insurgents. Not unlike those followers of the Religion of Peace who lobbed rockets into Camp Victory last week, killing two and wounding forty.

We must not under any circumstances allow disdain for US involvement, or for the US military, or for the missions being fought to cause theoretical posturing over foreign policy. We are long past questioning whether we ought to be involved. There is no question the US will remain invested in this region and elsewhere for many years.

I cannot condone the years of political diplomacy, pandering to both Congress and our own anti-war crowd. In the beginning W said the right thing: "with us or against us." Hesitance to push back - hard - against forces and ideologies that remain a threat to our people and our nation created confusion for citizens and soldiers alike.

The question properly put to the Congress and White House is, “What are you prepared to do now?”

Henry BoC Advertising SPLOST?

2007-10-09T06:09:00.000-04:00

I hope somebody can fill me in on the financing, production and ownership of this film. The film featured on the BoC website indicates Copyright © Henry County Board of Commissioners. The promotional film touts the benefits and management of the current SPLOST II program.
After a friend emailed to me about the SPLOST show on Charter cable channel 14, I caught the televised show on Saturday, October 6th. It is purely a public relations production. Although nobody says, "VOTE," it uses local dignitaries to tout the benefits of the tax program including BoC Chairman Jason Harper, Judge Ben Studdard, GDOT appointee Dana Lemon and Farm Bureau V.P. Josh White. County employee Roy Clack is also featured.

This is apparently not a private enterprise, and cannot be viewed as independent of local government.

By stating transportation projects amounted to 67% of the county's general fund budget, we got a reminder that without SPLOST renewal our other taxes would be affected. With the referendum less than a month away, the board's intention is clearly promotion of SPLOST III.

Posted at the County website and televised on Henry's government access channel, no doubt produced and financed with County funds, this may well be a violation of state law.

OCGA 21-5-32.2 prohibits use of public funds to support any campaign, political action committee, political organization for any purpose.

The BoC and cities are further prohibited from spending public funds for advertisement, flyers, mailings or other direct promotion in support of passage of a SPLOST. Harrison v. Rainey, 227 GA 240 (1971) and McKinney v. Brown, 242 GA 456 (1978) are law suits validating the prohibition.

Public Relations is a great thing. But not for a tax program; and, not at taxpayer expense. I wonder how the attorney general or state elections division would rule on this film

Not enough details on SPLOST III

2007-10-05T17:00:00.000-04:00

The Henry County Board of Commissioners adopted a sketchy list of transportation projects that shows no budget or timeline information.The wording that concerns me is "Road, street and bridge improvements including, without limitation ..."

The county commissioners did not list any second-tier projects in case county revenues actually exceed $240 million. Without limitation? Does that mean some projects may be adopted later? Are revenues to be used for discretionary spending?

The absence of budget figures in the adopted transportation project list is worrisome. Budgets are listed for capital projects. I know they used spreadsheets to arrive at allocation of each district's funds. But without revealing details to voters what can we really know?

In the cities, Stockbridge is dedicating $27 million to public works and redevelopment efforts. Among McDonough's largest projects is Alexander Park at $7 million.

But hey, Stockbridge made their plans clear by using eminent domain and getting a lot of news coverage. And McDonough's councilwoman Gail Notti has been pitching a butterfly house for a long time.

The 5% expense for operation and management is shown as a deduction from Transportation, making that true percent only 65% of revenues! Most people expected at least 75% to 80% going to Transportation. Something else not stated is the cost of issuing the bonds or interest or fees associated with that debt. Will that cost also be deducted from Transportation?

The county has already spent over $14 million at Heritage Park. I cannot guess at costs for Moseley, but it will get even more funds in the new SPLOST.The Intergovernmental agreement binds the county and cities, but it is not even referenced in the ballot we will vote on. Exactly what are we voting on?

The ballot question. Conflicting project lists. No published details. In earlier, SPLOST referendums, voters have approved vague statements that resulted in "maybe" and "what if."So long as we accept this behavior with our votes, they do not have to be accountable.

Posts At JasonPye.com-SPLOST

2007-09-29T16:33:00.000-04:00

Search Results from JasonPye.com

Why I Like Neal Boortz
An excerpt from the Neal Boortz website in August 2001, I felt it sums up SPLOST pretty good. LOCAL OPTION SALES TAXES On yesterday’s show we received a call from a caller in Seminole County, Florida. Seems they are having... Posted in JasonPye.com on September 29, 2007 02:35 PM

SPLOST III Description of Projects
Visit the County website For the full project listing. The Henry County Board of Commissioners has approved the 2007 SPLOST Ballot Description of Projects, which will be constructed should the program be approved by voters in November. The adoption of... Posted in JasonPye.com on September 29, 2007 08:12 AM

They Never Learn
For SPLOST III it is critical that voters get the whole picture in writing before the referendum. Information is available with a little effort. That is, if you really want to know about transportation projects. The best source is the... Posted in JasonPye.com on September 28, 2007 02:53 PM

No Confidence in SPLOST III?
I got this e-mail from Reid Bowman today about SPLOST and the priorities of the BOC:Where to begin, as a county commissioner, I am appalled at what is taken place on the SPLOST 3 projects. Early on I proposed that... Posted in JasonPye.com on September 26, 2007 05:37 PM

Douglas voters vote down SPLOST

James Bell and the Douglas County Taxpayers Coalition have done it again:Douglas County voters Tuesday rejected a 1 percent special purpose local option sales tax, a move which jeopardizes work on the Pine Mountain Gold Museum at Stockmar Park and... Posted in JasonPye.com on September 19, 2007 08:03 AM

More accountability needed in proposed SPLOST
Thanks to the Daily Herald for printing this opinion piece. And thanks to BJ Mathis for being the lone commissioner who openly challenged the adopted language for the November ballot - and used her vote against it. Excerpts from the... Posted in JasonPye.com on September 10, 2007 04:07 PM

SPLOST ballot language approved
The language for the SPLOST ballot question has been settled: The Henry County Board of Commissioners voted 4-1 Tuesday to approve a ballot for this November’s Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax vote. But this year, the final list of proposed... Posted in JasonPye.com on September 5, 2007 06:33 AM

SPLOST Ballot Question
RE: http://www.henryherald.com/local/local_story_241214631.html “There will not be actual projects on the ballot,” said Mathis. “Our only way to notify voters about the projects is on the Web site, the local TV station and advertisements in the newspaper,” she said. They know... Posted in JasonPye.com on August 30, 2007 06:05 AM

McDonough Ethics Committee

2007-09-24T06:02:00.000-04:00

Response to McDonough's Ethics Committee

A citizen committee must be empowered to indict elected officials as well as city employees under GMA guidelines as well as the state of Georgia Code of Ethics. A committee setup for public relations purposes can have no impact. A citizens committee whose members may be ejected by elected officials who may become involved in ethical misconduct is without needed autonomy. A citizens committee lacking legal and judicial support to investigate and indict is powerless.

Now, let's talk about ethics reform regarding conflicts of interest and personal business interests becoming commingled with official acts. we rarely see a council member recuse themselves in any matter.

The recent resolution to prohibit recording of public meetings is a clear example of official misconduct. Officially violating our state's laws was recommended by the City Attorney and approved by four members of the City Council: OCGA § 45-10-1, II, requires officials to “Uphold the Constitution, laws, and legal regulations of the United States and the State of Georgia and of all governments therein and never be a party to their evasion.”

Exactly what authority does, or would, an Ethics Committee have to invoke OCGA § 45-10-4: “Code of ethics for members of boards, commissions, and authorities -- Hearing on violation charge; notice of hearing; removal of member from office; filling vacancies; judicial review.”

What is the value of an Ethics Committee if ethical misconduct is not fully prosecuted?

Told Ya So...

2007-09-22T15:23:00.000-04:00

As published by the Henry Daily Herald September 09, 2007, Guest Column by Larry Stanley

More accountability needed in proposed SPLOST

I do not oppose the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax. It was an honor to serve on the Oversight Committee. For three months, the process of gathering information and sorting project requests led committee members to labor over the law, flaws in past programs, and ways to ensure accountability.

The Henry Daily Herald (“BOC approves SPLOST ballot question” by Jaya Franklin) again told us the SPLOST ballot question would not specifically list designated projects.

At the Henry County Republican Party meeting on Sept. 4, Henry County Commission Chairman Jason Harper said the list will be included by reference.In an e-mail on Aug. 30, Chairman Harper told me, “We are going to adopt a complete list of projects and prioritize them. The [first Herald] article was not entirely accurate. The ballot specifies what kind of projects we will do and the monetary amount. We actually adopted the ballot language yesterday.”

Accountability requires the program must be important enough to spend the time, develop a real plan and do it right. The Board of Commissioners naturally wants ultimate flexibility, and will tell us that priorities change over time. They want to follow the Transportation Plan, but have not adopted it into the SPLOST program. My concern is that state law does not allow cherry picking which projects will be done, and which ones will eventually be abandoned.

State law defines an intergovernmental agreement, that allows for a six-year program, as project specific. Only Hampton provided a detailed project list, and the county adopted a population-based formula to grant 25 percent of revenues to the cities. I always thought this political option was inconsistent and too vague.The ballot must “place the electorate on fair notice of the projects to which the tax will be devoted,” (Attorney General decision, 1990.)

The ballot is the only binding approval process. Commissioners, Elizabeth “BJ” Mathis and Warren Holder, are correct that nobody will vote for a blank check. The approach is legal, but it was also a major factor in the initial defeat of SPLOST II five years ago. Officials said a list of the projects will be publicized later, but Mathis is concerned that some may not see the information. And she is correct. As approved, the ballot question does not include, even by reference, exactly what we are expected to approve. As such, there is at least disagreement, and at worst, a serious lack of accountability.

I expect the BOC to clearly communicate exactly what projects the revenue will be applied to, establish a timeline for completion of defined top-tier projects, and create a prioritized list of additional projects for when the primary list of projects has been completed. Citizens will then be able to vote with a clear understanding of how revenue will be used, and they can check off the projects as they are completed.

SPLOST III is a six-year, $300 million tax program. If the commissioners do not agree, or the county’s legal organ cannot report the story correctly, or the Chairman says something different at a political meeting, then we have reason to be concerned.

Meaningless Zoning Ordianances

2007-06-06T16:13:00.000-04:00

A tie vote on June 5th doomed a proposed moratorium on residential zoning. However, the "it is not needed" approach failed to consider how a moratorium would benefit the county.

One commissioner who opposed the resolution has always said: The land use plan is just a guide; priorities change; people deserve zoning changes for highest and best use of their land.

The Georgia DCA requires counties to have a land use plan. Failure to have one allows the state to revoke authority to issue building permits. Have the citizens been defrauded by the BoC spending hundreds of thousands of dollars and years of man-hours to study and produce the CLUP if it exists only as a negotiation tool?

Although priorities change, personal agendas have not changed here for over thirty years. Failure to recognize a need for an altered path is not rational.

Landowners “deserve” only the land uses defined by our ordinances. Exceptions deny equal protection to every other landowner. When the BoC makes exceptions, the definitions of zoning districts and all associated ordinances are changed. Non-conforming zoning changes only grease the slippery slope.

“Highest and best use” is a real estate marketing term. It does not exist in any Title of the Official Code of Georgia. The only "best use" that legally exists is already defined in the ordinances.

Negotiation efforts by Joe Developer and complicity by Bob Commissioner is “normal procedure” for those who believe their personal opinions are more valid than the letter of law. That fact causes concern about growth management and whether the Board members can be trusted stewards.

The county has lost many legal battles over this blatantly arbitrary and capricious rewriting of ordinances. Each corruption of county code leads to another, and then another.

A moratorium on residential zoning changes would have forced the BoC to honor our ordinances. It would allow the 2030 Comprehensive Land Use Plan to be quickly adopted into county ordinances.

As Commissioner Mathis said, "Right now we are in the same position we've always been in. For years we've had tunnel vision in this county and for now that isn't going to change."

The Conservative Revolt

2007-06-03T09:00:00.000-04:00

Peggy Noonan in Wall Street Journal:

Bush the younger came forward, presented himself as a conservative, garnered all the frustrated hopes of his party, turned them into victory, and not nine months later was handed a historical trauma that left his country rallied around him, lifting him, and his party bonded to him. He was disciplined and often daring, but in time he sundered the party that rallied to him, and broke his coalition into pieces. He threw away his inheritance. I do not understand such squandering.

So long as the anti-Conservatives in the administration continue to circle the wagons, the perception will remain that Conservatism is dead. The payoff will be shown at the ballot boxes. To those Democrats who now apologize for voting in favor of invading Iraq, we owe gratitude for showing the Republicans how to manifest weakness, but not how foolish they look.

I asked for your vote with a promise to reduce government, lower taxes and eliminate waste. I told you that Reagan was my mentor, and national security was my top priority.

Instead we got elected and proved that government spending, earmarks and social programs gained us, not you, more power and authority. We forgot the meaning of fair market and imposed terminology that made Republicans indistinguishable from Democrats and other socialists.

Globalization is a rhetorical term used to pander to those industries whose corporate coffers support Congressional career longevity. What is obvious to "free market" advocates is that government intervention is always lopsided and designed to limit capitalism. Capitalism is all about competition and profits - not the so-called level field promised by socialism.

Opening the borders, exporting only raw materials, equalizing US culture and traditions serve no purposes that Americans value. Manufacturing is no longer seen as important to our economy. Rather service industries are touted as creating more jobs than America has lost. To the extent that cheaper labor is found in PAC-RIM, Asian or Latin countries, the United States is now driven to global economic standards. Strength is shown to be our weakness.

America may, but probably will not elect a true socialist to the presidency. But imagine Hillary's socialized medicine plan. Think about innovation and progress made here as opposed to Canada or France or Mexico. Policy driven toward lowest common denominators will produce a failure not only of medicine but every market segment in the US economy.

Universalism, the concept that the US is rich and somehow owes equality (not opportunity) other nations, is fatal.

Conservatives see a nation of hard work, excellence, achievement and opportunity. Socialists see the US economy as an endless and bottomless money pit to be redistributed. Wealth redistribution is pure communism, but even the Chinese and Russian models require an elite ruling class and survive in the backs of a peasantry conditioned to thankfulness for crumbs falling from the "ruler's" table.

Equivocating and universalizing destroys America's uniqueness. That is the fear and concern shared by conservatives. Argue any single point or raise points of individual social and economic benefits. At the end of the day, a borderless and socialist country will exist and not the nation built upon America's core principles.

Being a Conservative is far more than following rhetorical missives. It is more than religious mantras. It is certainly not about following blindly when leaders declare something is "good for the country." Patriotism is supporting the country always, and supporting the government only when it is deserved.

Being a Conservative means we do not want so-called leaders. We are too smart and determined for that. We want something not offered by either the Democrats or Republicans. We want representation.

The Politically Correct Veto

2007-06-01T17:19:00.000-04:00

As you read this, keep in mind that an illegal alien driving without a license killed a Cobb County Deputy on New Years Eve. That Deputy left behind a wife and baby. The accident was by no means unusual as they happen every day around the country.

There is no purpose in citing statistics for highway deaths. Or, the problems with American citizens who drive without a license.

But there is a strong point to be made regarding illegal aliens who cannot speak English, read road signs, or display any respect for either laws or the reasons for having them. It is that issue that the makes the New Year’s Eve incident a tragedy that can be addressed.

There is strong political pressure to side with Bush and the Democrats on open borders. The RINOs in Congress are jockeying to build images and political capital. Even Captain Sonny Perdue of the Good Ship Open Borders is playing along. It is sickening.

Senate Bill 15 sought to increase the penalties for driving without a valid license. In addition to other punishments, it provided that a first offense would result in a misdemeanor to be punished by imprisonment of at least two days and not more than twelve days. It also authorized a $500 to $1,000 fine for first offenses.

Although judges would have discretion to suspend the fines or period of imprisonment if the new resident had a valid driver's license from another state, Perdue exercised his veto power to kill the bill. Although he expressed “support for the intent of tracking persons that possess no valid driver’s license, “ he saw too many potential problems with enforcement.

Enforcement. That is the key problem for too many politicians. There is no will to enforce our borders, or even strengthen traffic laws.

Nobody can overlook the fact this proposed law was strongly opposed by immigrant activist groups. Even the liberally biased AJC reported Perdue’s veto was a result of their efforts. Perdue recognized the big picture of legal Georgians vs. Chambliss and Isakson; South Georgia farmers and their plea for slave labor; huge pressures to avoid following in Arizona’s footsteps and denouncing either Senators or the President. Perdue must have been laughing under his breath to say he cared about ”the intent of tracking persons” when that is a needed practice for identifying and apprehending illegals - and others who willfully and repeatedly violate our laws.

SB 15 would have been the law for legal and illegal alike. That is why it had to be killed. Fair is only fair when there is no chant of racism, bigotry or xenophobia. When the good people of Georgia revisit the ballot boxes it is certain they will remember the politically correct politicians who propose to elevate illegals and other law-breakers above honest, law-abiding citizens. The death of this law is just one example of a state and nation going astray at the hands of its leaders.

Poor Growth Management

2007-05-30T20:14:00.000-04:00

Granted there are some real problems In Henry County associated with rampant residential development. As we watch houses continue to multiply in an unregulated manner, growth seems unnatural and almost cancerous.

I recently drove near the Luella schools on Walker Drive. I was reminded of two things: a terrible accident at the intersection of Walker and SR 155; and, county plans to improve that intersection. Between the schools and SR 155, I saw the reason for safety problems on Walker Drive.

First you see Centerra Ridge (low $100s) subdivision. The houses were so packed-in you could barely see daylight between them. Then filling out the scenery along the two-lane collector road are The Manor, Summer Lake ($160s-$270s) and Morning Side ($150s). There are hundreds of houses within one mile, in a so-called low density zoning district.

The board of commissioners determined the intersection of Walker Drive and SR 155 has a severe accident history. They performed a traffic study; and, decided that signalizing and adding lanes at the intersection would reduce congestion and provide better and safer access to the schools located on Walker Drive.

The $1.4 million project will be funded by reallocation of District II funds and $100,000.00 in developer contribution. This process of fixing a dangerous intersection means six other planned road projects must be abandoned.

A $100,000 contribution from John D. McGarity, CEO of Square One Properties, was not explained in the BoC Minutes. It must have something to do with the hundreds of houses that were allowed on Walker Drive, a two-lane collector road that goes nowhere except to the Luella schools.

Nobody thought about crowded schools or traffic congestion or even dangerous roads. Nobody considered the 2030 Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Or county ordinances stating R-2 subdivisions over eight acres shall have access onto an arterial road as identified in the land use plan. Nobody considered the true costs of allowing non-conforming, high density neighborhoods to buffer the school complex.

But then, neither good policy nor common sense was at work in those growth-management decisions.

The Market Is Not Free

2007-05-30T20:05:00.000-04:00

The "market" has never been free. Favorable laws and overt preferential treatment has ruled the day across Georgia. The state legislature just passed a Private Cities law that allows developers to issue municipal bonds. Under that scheme services provided outside the development are over stressed to support the enterprise. Essentially people inside pay double taxation, while people outside subsidize the developer.

Henry County's code allows for Planned Developments. The justification was to provide live-work-play environments. And they have been approved by the BoC. Show me one, please, that truly matches the intended outcome.

We also allow Conservation Subdivisions wherein greenspace is traded for high density. The concept is a good one, but it is sorely abused. When the land has a stream, wetland or other un-buildable lots, they are "traded" as greenspace. This is just another government effort to allow builders to increase rooftops at a higher price point - it does not meet the desired outcome of true greenspace.

Both development types increase net density, traffic and impact to schools. But the justifications for creating such ordinances have been left in the dust.

We could do what Steve Cash talks about and have more affordable
housing because it's the only thing that is selling. We don't have enough $150,000 homes in Henry. They sell fast. Should the government demand this type of housing so builders won't go broke, so those that purchase them can pay for them and banks can make money?

I have great respect for Steve Cash. But I recognize that it is his job to promote the interests of HCQG members. Let's not forget that lobbying for an industry association does not necessarily mean promoting sound public policy.

There is a ripple effect on all sides of this argument. First is a desire to provide lower cost housing. Secondly there is the tax revenue vs. costs of services. Then, too, we must consider infrastructure (roads, schools, water) required to support higher population.

In order to follow the 2030 Land & Transportation Plan, centers of activity are needed. Let's assume lower cost housing and therefore lower income residents. And a lot of them.

As in the case of Wesley Lakes in McDonough, these will be the first people to demand government services like parks and recreation facilities. In the grand scheme, folks across the county will be asked to support Activity Centers, roads, libraries, and senior centers. While some of that infrastructure cost can be met by SPLOST-type taxes, the long-term costs of staffing, maintenance and operations must be funded from countywide general fund coffers.

We must think beyond the scope of theory. We must open our eyes to the realities of government involvement that already exists. It is folly to believe that any market segment operates in a vacuum.

Promoting "affordable" housing - because it sells fast - may help the cause of struggling builders. And it may appear to support a freer market. But it is support, not the theoretical hands-off position.

It will financially strap the entire county. Lowering standards to promote sales is, once again, preferable treatment for the industry. Yes, it is in our interest to desire government intervention as equal protection under the law. Whereas a single industry can cause economic havoc among the citizenry, regulation is justified.

Housing Foreclosures: An Economic Indicator

2007-05-26T10:55:00.000-04:00

There is a 3-year inventory of unsold houses in Henry County. The Henry Herald reports

the number of foreclosures in Henry County has increased 327 percent from 2000 to 2006, the highest increase in the 10-county metro area.

One traditional indicator of economic health is the housing market. When an industry is represented by the Chamber, the HCQG and provides 24% of the county's workforce - and prices are falling - it is a bad omen for everyone.

Think about the financial game. There are only losers! Real estate agents are leaving the business. Builders are filing for bankruptcy. People are allowed to buy houses they cannot afford. The value of existing houses decline because the market is flooded. This is the result of government’s best efforts to save this "economic indicator" from years of bad policy!

With over 4,500 unsold houses already built it is bewildering why builders continue to seek building permits and zoning for high density housing - which means more units per acre. Foreclosures are the economic indicator begging for action.

The County and Cities have seldom taken a responsible position. Although real people lose employment, businesses and their homes, the official position is apparently grounded in expanding the tax base. When the County refuses a zoning change, the Cities stand ready to approve annexation. In fact, our cities have annexed residential areas that make the maps look like disjointed fingers across the county.

Our elected officials know that a $100,000 house will generate only one-third the property taxes needed to offset costs of government services. The County has succeeded in raising the bar to increase the average selling price on new houses. But the $300,000 median has not been reached. And, unfortunately, the high-end market is now in the most trouble.

The thing officials should be proud of doing is providing caps and ceilings on new development. The county's infrastructure cannot support more cars on the roads, more kids in school, more water consumption, more foreclosures. We cannot support more residential development. The economic harm done to business and quality of life affects everyone. We all lose.

SPLOST: Pitfalls to Avoid

2007-05-18T16:58:00.000-04:00

SPLOST: Pitfalls to Avoid

When a person or group oversteps the bounds of prudence, or uses discretionary authority in violation of law, it is wrong. It is an abuse of discretion. The following information is compiled toward avoiding potential pitfalls with the SPLOST III (or any future) Program, public perception, the ballot question and project budgeting and completion. It is not presented as an indictment of current or past SPLOST management, but to demonstrate potential pitfalls.

The Dickey Case

The Georgia Supreme Court case Dickey v. Storey in 1992 became the litmus test to determine when a governing authority steps over the line concerning revenues from a special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST). The commissioners in Floyd County wanted to abandon one set of plans for a Forum complex so that a different plan and new location could be used. They also wanted to replace a baseball field with a new one.

The court imposed a requirement for Floyd County to perform a cost analysis for improving the old ball field versus buying new land and developing a new park. Similarly, Henry is looking at a new soccer complex to be funded in our next SPLOST. It calls for abandonment of the existing soccer complex, buying new property and providing a complex suitable for statewide tournaments. It can be argued that before committing to a new complex, the property purchase, new facility and cost analysis must be fully explored and a feasibility study produced.

Regarding the Forum, the court held that neither personal opinion nor changing political support for the project was sufficient to define it as “infeasible.” Inasmuch as revenues were already invested, and the voters had approved the original plan and costs, Floyd County was ordered to forego plans for a new design and location.

The Association of County Commissioners of Georgia

The ACCG publishes a SPLOST Guide that includes the following passage:

The county is responsible for estimating the SPLOST revenues expected to be collected over the life of the SPLOST as well as the costs if all county projects to be submitted. The county should also ensure that the sum of all project costs, including those submitted by any municipality, equals the estimated revenues (O.C.G.A. § 48-8-111 (a) 3)).

Because all approved projects must be funded as provided under Dickey, counties should be careful not to overestimate SPLOST revenues, thereby requiring the use of other county funds to make up any shortfalls.
To most readers it is clear that a voter-approved project list is expected to include cost estimates and all the projects must be completed. However, during three meetings of the SPLOST Oversight Committee the members were repeatedly told that costs could not be known, and in one meeting a commissioner challenged the chair to investigate whether the BoC would be in violation of any law to provide such consultation to the Committee. There was a gap in understanding, but it was not present in the law or guidance provided by the ACCG.

A SPLOST Committee member posed several queries to the county attorney toward clarification of the issues presented herein. The latest response and opinion was provided April 25, 2007. In response to the query,

Should the SPLOST III Project List be limited to projects that can
reasonably be completed with the anticipated SPLOST III revenues or, is it acceptable to create a list that contains “more projects than could be financed by expected revenue”?
County attorney Mr. Patrick Jaugstetter stated,

“In short, it is my opinion that the list of projects proposed to be
financed by SPLOST proceeds should be one that can be completed with anticipated SPLOST III revenues.”
Project Costs and Accounting

It is early-May 2007 and nearly a year remains for collection of revenues under Henry’s current SPLOST. The program is capped at five-years and $140 million, so about $30 million may yet be collected. According to data published by the SPLOST Office, $109 million has been spent or allocated. Of that amount about $35 million is for capital improvements and about $74 million for transportation. At this point the 70% Transportation/30% Capital allocations approved by voters in 2002 is a bit out of line. It stands at 68% to 32%.

Costs on many things have increased since 2002. Most notably, building/ construction costs and any petroleum-related materials have caused some road projects to exceed initial projections by 200%-300%. However, some factors must be considered when overages occur in capital projects like the Courthouse Annex ($6 million over projection), the Arena at Heritage Park ($1.5 million over) and Holder Park (nearly $2 million over). It could be argued that expansion, rather than reduction of project scope can cause a de-facto abandonment of other unfunded projects.

The Master List of projects posted at the Henry County SPLOST website was updated in April 2007. It lists specific data for each project, but also shows projects for which no allocation or budget has been set. Largely these are transportation projects including roads, intersections and bridges. Unfunded projects include (with original cost estimates):
Capital Projects...... $11,965,000
Transportation...... $15,797,000
+ Dirt Roads........... $25,760,000
+ Bridges................ $ 1,492,000

Total: ..................... $ 55,014,000

The program is capped at five-years and $140 million, so about $30 million may yet be collected.

A review of reports published by the SPLOST Office indicates a potential problem. While each ongoing and completed project is readily identifiable, there is no statement concerning corrective action for under-funded projects. To wit, the annual report must also include a statement of what corrective action the local government intends to implement for each project that is under-funded or behind schedule and a statement of any surplus funds which have not been expended for a project [O.C.G.A. § 48-8-122].

ACCG guidelines state “Since project costs are estimates, each local government receiving SPLOST revenues may shift funds between their approved projects (as long as all projects are completed).”

And in case of a “shortfall” of SPLOST funds to pay for projects, "the approved projects could be scaled back, but not abandoned. A local government must make up any shortfall from their general fund or other funding sources."

In a 1992 decision, the Georgia Supreme Court ruled that the governing authority was obliged to use proceeds from the SPLOST tax for the projects approved in the SPLOST referendum. The Court held that the governing authority…is bound by the SPLOST budget and account reports to complete all projects listed therein unless circumstances arise which dictate that projects which initially seemed feasible are no longer so. In this regard, the governing authority has discretion to make adjustments in the plans for these projects, but may not abandon the projects altogether. Dickey v. Storey, 262 Ga. 452 (1992).

The Supreme Court, in the same ruling, recognized that the county could not use SPLOST funds for a project that had not been approved by the voters, noting that under O.C.G.A.§ 48-8-121(a) proceeds from the SPLOST…shall be used exclusively for the purpose or purposes specified in the resolution or ordinance calling for imposition of the tax.
Monthly updates are provided by The SPLOST Office detailing the status of ongoing projects and a list of completed projects by district. Based on the March 2007 Update, projects are listed that did not appear on the SPLOST II Master List as updated December 2006. The discrepancies occurred because projects were “brought forward” from the SPLOST 1 (1996-2000) program.

The process of “bringing forward” projects that were not completed poses a potential violation under Dickey, and ACCG guidance in that “The Court held that the governing authority…is bound… to complete all projects listed therein unless circumstances arise which dictate that projects which initially seemed feasible are no longer so.”

The ACCG further stipulates that

the term “infeasible” is not defined in the SPLOST law and is
open to interpretation. However, it is clear from the Dickey case, that there must be some intervening circumstance outside the control of the county or municipality before it would be considered infeasible. In contrast, diminished support for a project among the elected officials, a shortfall in SPLOST revenues, or increased project costs would not likely be sufficient for a project to cross the threshold from feasible to infeasible. Likewise, a technical problem in
constructing a facility would not make a project infeasible so long as there is a reasonable engineering solution to the
problem.

Contrary to opinions expressed at various times by county staff, consultants and elected officials, the predisposition to create a Project List containing more projects and greater cost than can be completed is arguably irresponsible. Although the situation may exist that SPLOST revenues could exceed the costs of listed/approved projects, it is far preferable to explore due diligence through budgetary analysis toward providing realistic expectations and goals.

It can be argued that each SPLOST Program must stand distinctly and that allocation of revenues from each Program “shall be used exclusively for the purpose or purposes specified in the resolution.”

This concern combines with the ACCG guidance: The SPLOST law requires that the purpose or purposes for which the SPLOST revenues will be used to be specified on the ballot. The degree of specificity required is not addressed in the law. However, the Attorney General of Georgia has concluded:

There is no necessity that the description of the purpose or purposes for the tax be in exacting detail. Rather, the description and the purposes must be only so specific as to place the electorate on fair notice of the
projects to which the tax will be devoted. Op. Att’y. Gen. U90-18 (1990)
To this end, a realistic, studied and budgeted list of projects should not only exist, but should be included by reference in the ballot question.

It is highly important that the SPLOST Committee, the Board of Commissioners as well as representatives of each city and community share common perception and understanding. Public perception is tantamount to a successful referendum, and subsequently a successful program.

May 2007, Larry Stanley

SPLOST Is A Fair Tax

2007-05-07T17:17:00.000-04:00

So you hate taxes? You want smaller government. Special interests may rule the day in some corners, and political agendas can account for government waste. This letter is not about specific politicians or whether you disagree with someone. It is about results we can see.

The best we can hope for is a fair tax - a consumption tax – and a government that recognizes what we really need. Thankfully, we in Henry County have a solid five-year record of managing SPLOST revenue that the county and citizens can be proud of.

We complain about traffic congestion, and rightly so. But we must recognize that managing growth is a matter for the board of commissioners and our city councils. If there are too many new houses or strip malls or crowded schools, then those are policy issues we citizens must address with elected officials.

Just think about life in Henry County five years ago. Jonesboro Road was 2-lane with no traffic lights. The East Lake Extension was not even started. The Eagles Landing Bridge was dream. The County has allocated over $13 million to major road improvements. Over $10 million has been allocated to intersection improvements. Everyone can see there is progress.

Yes, Henry County still has dirt roads. And SPLOST II accounts for nearly $45 million in paving, resurfacing and improving them. Over $4 million has been dedicated to bridge improvements. It is a complex job to meet safety and usability concerns, especially when new development and schools are opening across the county. Nearly a year remains to collect the current sales tax, and about $74 million is already dedicated to transportation.

Of course there are parks, activity centers, fire stations and libraries. These are included as capital projects. So far SPLOST has accounted for over $24 million in new buildings, and almost $11 million toward parks.

Yeah, I hate taxes, too. And I am proud that Henry County has managed SPLOST II with a keen eye and a sharp pencil. In November we will be asked to vote to continue this sales tax for another five or six year term. When we look at the final list of newly proposed projects, think how far we have come and how much more can be done.

Henry Wiki

2007-05-06T20:19:00.000-04:00

There is now a wiki for Henry County.

For those of you who don't know, a wiki is an interactive site that allows registered users to update content on different subjects and people. Wikipedia is probably the best example of this, though there are many comparable sites.

The site is called HenryWiki.

It only has a few pages up, but it is ready for new articles. You can write about the history of the county, different communities, civic organizations, politicians, interesting people...whatever your heart desires.

Check it out and tell your friends: http://www.henrywiki.com/

Make A Deal

2007-05-04T20:10:00.000-04:00

Let’s make a deal. I will trade anything you want for R-3 zoning and a few violations of Henry County ordinances. Chairman Harper once stated that such observations “unfortunately constitute a misrepresentation of my opinion as well as that of the board.”

On February 15, 2007 the board of commissioners voted unanimously to approve just such an R-3 zoning request near Hampton. The board of commissioners entered negotiations and levied seventeen conditions on zoning request RZ-06-56, which had been recommended for denial by the Henry Zoning Advisory Board. The ZAB heard opposing arguments based on density, area compatibility and lack of current sewer availability. Five neighbors opposed it; and only the developer spoke in favor of the proposal.

Among the conditions, the developer agreed to improve Amah Lee Road, donate right-of-way for the future realignment of Amah Lee Road, contribute an amount equivalent to the cost of grading and material and placement costs for 8" GAB, and 2" asphalt, donate 7.58 acres (near North Forty Park), and donate a fee of $2,000.00 per platted lot to Henry County for use toward the improvement of North Forty Park or toward additional transportation infrastructure improvement.

In some states imposing those conditions is called Contract Zoning and is illegal. But in Henry County it is legal for a commissioner to make a zoning approval contingent upon conditions: a quid pro quo.

The BoC resolution to approve the zoning stated, “No zoning conditions imposed herein shall be interpreted as to require any violation of any applicable codes.” But a quick read of county code Sec. 3-7-147 says the minimum lot area must be 12,000 feet. They approved lots of 7,500 square feet. R-3 developments must be limited to tracts of land consisting of twenty (20) acres or less. This property contains 41 acres. The Comprehensive 2030 Plan designates this property as Low Density with one-to-two houses per acre.

It should be clear by whose actions and words that misrepresentation has occurred. Facts are facts, and somebody’s gotta say it. Most folks think it is not too much to ask for officials to follow the county ordinances and land use planning. Some of us expect no less.

SPLOST-law

2007-05-04T19:59:00.000-04:00

The SPLOST law was enacted in 1985 at the request of ACCG. The SPLOST tax was conceived of and was enacted as a county tax for funding capital projects. It is not a municipal tax; nor is it a joint county-municipal tax like the regular Local Option Sales Tax (LOST). As a county tax, a SPLOST can only be initiated by the board of commissioners [O.C.G.A. § 48-8-110 and Op. Atty. Gen. U85-24].

Due to concerns from municipalities regarding adequate access to SPLOST funds for their capital improvement needs, ACCG and the Georgia Municipal Association negotiated legislative language promoting more cooperation between counties and municipalities thus hopefully generating greater countywide support for future SPLOST referenda. House Bill 709 [Ga. L. 2004, p. 69] was passed during the 2004 Session of the General Assembly and signed into law on April 23, 2004.

The governing authorities of the county and of each qualified municipality are to meet to discuss the possible projects for inclusion in the referendum, including municipally owned or operated projects. Such ordinance or resolution shall specify eligible expenditures identified by the county and any qualified municipality for use of proceeds distributed pursuant to subsection (b) of Code Section 48-8-115. Such ordinance or resolution shall also specify:

(3) The estimated cost of the project or projects which will be funded from the proceeds of
the tax,
(4) If general obligation debt is to be issued in conjunction with the imposition of the tax, the principal amount of the debt to be issued, the purpose for which the debt is to be issued, the local government issuing the debt, the interest rate or rates or the maximum interest rate or rates which such debt is to bear, and the amount of principal to be paid in each year during the life of the debt.

Resolution - Once the board of commissioners has compiled a proposed list of local projects to be funded with the SPLOST, the board must adopt an ordinance or resolution calling for imposition of the tax. The ordinance or resolution must include:
• A list of county and municipal projects for which the proceeds of the tax are to be used;
• The estimated cost of each project which will be funded from the proceeds of the tax; and
• The time period of the levy stated in calendar years or calendar quarters.

OCGA § 48-8-115. Disbursement of tax proceeds

(1) To the county governing authority and any qualified municipalities as specified in an
intergovernmental agreement. Where an intergovernmental agreement has been entered into, the agreement shall, at a minimum, include the following:
(A) The specific capital outlay project or projects to be funded pursuant to the agreement;
(B) The estimated or projected dollar amounts allocated for each project from tax proceeds from the tax authorized by this part;

(E) A provision that all capital outlay projects included in the agreement shall be funded from proceeds from the tax authorized by this part except as otherwise agreed;

A Model SPLOST Intergovernmental Agreement would include:

D. The County and Municipalities agree that each approved SPLOST project associated with
this Agreement shall be completed or substantially completed within five years of the
termination of the SPLOST. Any SPLOST proceeds held by a County or Municipality at the
end of the five year period shall, for the purposes of this Agreement, be deemed excess
funds and disposed of as provided under O.C.G.A. § 48-8-121 (g)(2).

Effective Date and Term of This Agreement
This Agreement shall commence upon the date of its execution and shall terminate upon the
later of:

(ii) The expenditure by the County and all of the Municipalities of the last dollar of
money collected from the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax after the expiration of
the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax; or

(iii) The completion of all projects described in Exhibit A.

Can SPLOST revenues be moved between voter-approved projects to accommodate greater costs in one or more of the projects?

Yes. Since project costs are estimates, each local government receiving SPLOST revenues may shift funds between their approved projects (as long as all projects are completed). Be aware that this flexibility could be lost if the ballot language presented to the voters designates estimated dollar amounts for each project rather than the total estimated cost for all proposed SPLOST projects.

In case of a “shortfall” of SPLOST funds to pay for projects, what happens?

The approved projects could be scaled back, but not abandoned. A local government must make up any shortfall from their general fund or other funding sources.

Can a county or municipality change its mind and not fund one or more of the SPLOST projects despite voter approval in a referendum?

No. In a 1992 decision, the Georgia Supreme Court ruled that the governing authority was obliged to use proceeds from the SPLOST tax for the projects approved in the SPLOST referendum. The Court held that the governing authority …is bound by the SPLOST budget and account reports to complete all projects listed therein unless circumstances arise which dictate that projects which initially seemed feasible are no longer so. In this regard, the governing authority has discretion to make adjustments in the plans for these projects, but may not abandon the projects altogether. Dickey v. Storey, 262 Ga. 452 (1992).

The Supreme Court, in the same ruling, recognized that the county could not use SPLOST funds for a project that had not been approved by the voters, noting that under O.C.G.A.§ 48-8-121(a) proceeds from the SPLOST …shall be used exclusively for the purpose or purposes specified in the resolution or ordinance calling for imposition of the tax.

SPLOST-CP1

2007-05-04T19:53:00.000-04:00

CLICK ON IMAGE

SPLOST-MK3

2007-05-04T19:52:00.000-04:00

CLICK ON IMAGE

SPLOST-MK2

2007-05-04T19:50:00.000-04:00

CLICK ON IMAGE

SPLOST-MK1

2007-05-04T19:48:00.000-04:00

CLICK ON IMAGE

SPLOST III

2007-05-04T19:29:00.000-04:00

Henry County SPLOST III

Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax

Committee Members:

Chair, Mary House
District 1, Dee Dee Hunt
District 2, Richard Rhinehart
District 3, Vice Chair, Larry Stanley
District 4, Phil Crosby
District 5, Thomas Hester

Committee Meeting Schedule........................ SPLOST III Committee Meeting Minutes

Henry County will hold a referendum in November 2007 asking voters to approve the extension of our current Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax.

Follow these links to information about SPLOST

Developing a SPLOST Project List
Excerpts from A Guide for County Officials by the

Association of County Commissioners of Georgia

County-wide Sales tax collections cash flows
Provided by Morgan Keegan & Company

Conservative SPLOST Revenue Projections
Provided by Morgan Keegan & Company

Aggressive SPLOST Revenue Projections
Provided by Morgan Keegan & Company

Capital Buildings Estimated Costs
Provided by Henry County SPLOST Office

State Law Governing SPLOST
Excerpts from A Guide for County Officials by the

Association of County Commissioners of Georgia

SPLOST: Pitfalls to Avoid
Excerpts from the ACCG SPLOST Guide & OCGA Title 48

Told Ya So ....
Beware the Ballot question!

Link to several posts created since the
Board of Commissioners released the Project Lists

Aditional information is posted at the

Henry County government website and

at Henry County Online

Information and Commentary

posted at http://www.jasonpye.com/

Bargaining with Land Use Planning

2007-05-03T09:06:00.000-04:00

We gripe and complain about traffic, crowded schools. Politicians blame all the pain on growth. Yet we know what is wrong with Henry County. A new zoning request on Campground Road proves developers like Tim Jones and David Black, aka Dutchtown Development, believe every ordinance and land use plan is negotiable. The horrid shame is that the BoC sometimes take pride in negotiating something better than the developer originally asked for. This time, the requested zoning and site plan flagrantly violate the current and future land use plan and several county ordinances. It is clearly setup to force a negotiation.

There is no reason to enter the game knowing the county and citizens can only lose! The property contains Type-A wetlands, yet there is no wetland mitigation plan. There is no protection for the stream leading to Walnut Creek, as building lots and proposed detention ponds are sited in the flood plain. Future sewer lines must cross the stream to reach over 270 of the homes.

The requested zoning change also includes a built-in variance. County ordinances say one-third-acre lots are only allowed on tracts of 20 acres or less. This property contains 163 acres, and they want 357 houses. Our Joint Henry County-Cities 2030 Comprehensive Plan designates this area for Low Density Residential, specifically with lots larger than one acre. If the Board of Commissioners would violate the plan even before it is ratified, what is the point of spending years and millions of dollars to produce it?

Henry Fire Department says the development should require two entrances on Campground Road and two bridges across the stream. Drive along that stretch of the two-lane, poorly maintained road and experience the horror of adding even 200 homes. Think about destroying wetlands. Think about added impact to Union Grove schools. None of these concerns matter to the dollar-driven, negotiators - but they all spell disaster for the community.

As we contemplate our high property taxes and high sales taxes, and the poor state of county infrastructure, this type of development cannot be justified. Let us pray the commissioners will stand on principle and flatly deny it.

Whose Park Is It?

2006-12-20T07:51:00.000-05:00

This commentary is inspired by a new ordinance passed by the Henry board of commissioners, as reported in the Henry Daily Herald. The topic has received many comments at the Herald Forum and Jasonpye.com.

Whose park is it, anyway? I never knew that a commission chairman could dictate use of publicly financed facilities as if they were privately owned. Jason Harper asked, “Why shouldn’t smoking be banned in public parks?” Simple: by definition the parks are public, and they provide an open-air environment. I must question the intelligence of hack politicians whose agenda consists of placating an elitist social group rather than representing all the citizens whose tax dollars they spend.

Clearly, Henry’s parks are not private property. They are owned and financed by all taxpayers in the county – even the ones who smoke. To the tennis player who says, “We do not want smokers around our kids,” I have a suggestion. Buy some land, and then pay for a private tennis court. Then and only then may she impose personal desires on those who actually paid for the facility. Presently she is sponging off of me and thousands of taxpayers who provide a place to practice her swing.

The recently passed county ordinance (Henry Herald, December 19) not only bans smoking at taxpayer-financed parks, but it also bans “possession of any combustible tobacco products.” Yet tobacco remains a legal substance. Neither the state of Georgia nor Henry County has passed any laws to the contrary.

For real effectiveness, let’s impose fines for every driver on “public roads” because of air pollution. All county vehicles must use only clean-burning propane or electric motors. Then, severe fines should be imposed on folks for publicly expelling methane gas. Those fumes are truly offensive, deplete the ozone layer and contribute to global warming.

Will Henry Countians continue to elect politically correct elitists whose official acts fail to serve the taxpayers who provide them with financing for these parks? This single ordinance is a prime reason to oppose any continuation or future imposition of SPLOST. Why should taxpayers vote for a tax that makes them de-facto 2nd class citizens?

Integration & Assimilation

2006-12-09T07:55:00.000-05:00

This week in the Henry Times, Josh Clarke asked, “Will the presence of these undocumented residents keep our entire Hispanic population from ever fully integrating?” The answer is complex because the concept of integration and assimilation held by most Americans is not the reality of the situation. Our own president, many members of Congress, and liberal think tanks promote removing our national borders and sacrificing our culture to create a new world order. That New Order homogenizes all of North America, so US citizens are rightfully concerned about the welcome mat.

We have county solicitors who do not care, state senators who refuse to acknowledge, and tax-funded medical centers spinning their own investment in expanded services. Note that all of these public officials are feeding at the public trough, accessing tax dollars to fund their own existence. The politics of the matter results in lies and half-truths.

President Bush, Mexico’s Fox and Canada’s Martin issued a joint statement that each of the countries are “mutually dependent and complementary” and stated the Security and Prosperity Partnership goal as helping: “Consolidate our action into a North American framework to confront security and economic challenges, and promote the full potential of our people, addressing disparities and increasing opportunities for all.” US Rep. Ron Paul calls the SPP “an unholy alliance of foreign consortiums and officials from several governments.”

The Council on Foreign Relations presented a report to the SPP within months of its founding entitled “Building A North American Community.” The CFR based this document, a blatant blueprint for a North American “union,” on SPP’s stated goals.

At the national level Congress has refused to take actions demanded by citizens, even ignoring the plight of many US cities. In Georgia, the “sweeping legislation” passed this year left gaping holes and especially left employers unaccountable. In both cases the Supply of Jobs is touted as needing illegals for fill The Demand for labor.

Let’s look at the high cost of cheap labor from the Center for Immigration Studies. With nearly two-thirds of illegal aliens lacking a high school degree, the primary reason they create a fiscal deficit is their low education levels and resulting low incomes and tax payments.

On average, the costs that illegal households impose on federal coffers are
less than half that of other households, but their tax payments are only
one-fourth that of other households.

Many of the costs associated with illegals are due to their American-born
children, who are awarded U.S. citizenship at birth. Thus, greater efforts at
barring illegals from federal programs will not reduce costs because their
citizen children can continue to access them.

Households headed by illegal aliens imposed more than $26.3 billion in
costs on the federal government in 2002 and paid only $16 billion in taxes,
creating a net fiscal deficit of almost $10.4 billion, or $2,700 per illegal
household.

The Center For Individual Freedom posts statistics regarding prison populations, criminal activity, and militant pro-amnesty groups. Most Americans believe that illegal aliens are overcrowding our schools and jails, mobbing our health-care facilities and gobbling up welfare benefits. One typical survey, conducted before the election by The Polling Company/Woman Trend, found the following:

• 66% of likely American voters said the population growth triggered by
illegal immigration would "negatively affect the quality of life in America."
• Hispanics by a ration of 6-1 said the quality of life where they
live would be worse rather than better with more immigration.
• With African-Americans it was 9-1. With Democrats it was 7-1, for Independents 10-1, for Republicans 14-1.

Cities and counties across the United States are taking unilateral action because there is no support from the federal government. Even when illegals are arrested and jailed, federal agencies are not particularly willing to press deportation. Conflicting policies and lack of needed enforcement creates and fosters an underground society of illegals.

A case in point recently happened in Emmanuel County where the Crider chicken processing plant was raided and over 700 illegals fled the county. Crider, a large Georgia agribusiness employer, complains that it must now increase its wages. Further, Crider officials say they cannot find legal Americans who can pass background checks required for employment. In truth the illegals were found to have fraudulently duplicated social security cards, a fact Crider human resources staff had to know. When forty percent of your hourly workers share common identification a red flag must arise. What of the underground society? Many of the illegals are believed to have relocated to Kentucky where enforcement of our laws remains nonexistent.

Henry County solicitor Chuck Spahos says he is ambivalent about the issue of illegal immigrants living among natural and documented citizens. When illegals are arrested for misdemeanors like having no driver’s license, they are fined and released.

State senator Jones says, "I have not seen any empirical data that suggests to me these people are benefiting from the system.”

Henry Medical Center’s Emergency Room Director, Mike Crumbley, reports that his ER is not seeing any problems from illegal immigrants. "We may see two or three a week," he said. "What we’re seeing are injuries from construction sites and complications with pregnancies.

HMC became concerned enough about illegal immigrants with pregnancy
complications that it opened Henry Healthcare Prenatal Clinic in November. The
clinic takes only indigent and Medicaid patients, many of them illegal
immigrants. This is something of a radical response to the issue of illegal
immigration, but Crumbley says that it’s a part of medicine from a
community-owned hospital.

We have county solicitors who do not care, state senators who refuse to acknowledge, and tax-funded medical centers spinning their own investment in expanded services. Note that all of these public officials are feeding at the public trough, accessing tax dollars to fund their own existence. The politics of the matter results in lies and half-truths.

Official and legalized loyalty to feeding from the public dole, opening doors to corporate profits, refusing to take action – these factors confuse and complicate the answer Josh Clarke seeks. Just one year of forced fiscal accountability - off the public dole - and these liberals would see things far more clearly. But it will never happen until Americans slam the doors on elected and appointed officials who continually pour our money and resources into the socialist system of freebies.

School Boards & Social Engineering

2006-12-05T08:40:00.000-05:00

You can read about this story at AJC, and HERE. In Washington and Kentucky school boards have worked to achieve diversity not only in schools, but also by attempting to influence how neighborhoods are populated. Methods including forced bussing that require some kids to board the bus at 5:30am, or disallowing kids to attend nearby neighborhood schools has been challenged by parents. The school boards admit to using race as the sole deciding factor in manipulating school attendance.

People make choices. Parents, home buyers & taxpayers in both cities have decided where they want to live. It amounts to voluntarily segregation, and the school boards cannot allow that!
I listened to the oral arguments presented before the Supreme Court on C-SPAN last night. In every instance, the attorney for the Louisville system dodged giving direct answers about whether race was the real and final determining factor in their policies. The net-net was "YES" they are making every effort to socially engineer neighborhoods and therefore have an easier time achieving racial quotas in schools.

AJC: The school policies in contention are designed to keep schools from segregating along the same lines as neighborhoods. In Seattle, only high school students are affected. Louisville's plan applies system wide.

THE DECIDING VOTE?

Justice Anthony Kennedy, who could hold the decisive vote, joined his
conservative colleagues in expressing deep skepticism about the programs.

The Seattle district seems to be telling its high school students who
are subject to the plan that "everybody can get a meal," but that only certain
people can get "dessert," Kennedy said. He was referring to the fact that some
students did not get assigned to the schools they preferred based on their
race.

Just a few months go the High Court refused to hear these appeals. Now that Justice O'Conner is gone and new judges are onboard they reversed that position. We can all pray that with new members the Supreme Court will reverse the mandate and ability for school boards to tell people where and how to live. The argument that some schools will become "substandard" or "low-achieving" should be addressed by the boards as a matter of professionalism and just doing their jobs -- provide quality education for all students at all schools. It is not for the school systems to dictate, but to adjust and overcome and perform. Just like the rest of us.

State DOT Board seeks Highest Bidders

2006-12-02T21:02:00.000-05:00

There are very few editorials posted by the AJC that I can agree with. Editorial staffer Lyle Harris, however, has hit on an area in state government where graft, corruption and waste is open to bidders. The state DOT board continually hawks tax subsidies like commuter rail, and Lord knows Henry's representation stinks.

Under state law, DOT board members and other officials aren't required to disclose gifts, meals or other items of value they receive from lobbyists. Although lobbyists are required to make those disclosures, there's no limit on how much they can spend on public officials, a gaping loophole that legislative leaders have been shamefully reluctant to close.

These people are appointed to serve the taxpaying public. They are not elected and they have no accountability to plan wisely or spend our money frugally. The simple truth is they are very happy to accept royal treatment offered by lobbyists and developers and anyone else with a checkbook.

A frequent sponsor for this overweening largess is Georgians For Better Transportation, a misleadingly named front organization for road-builders and contractors. GBT has hosted several events for the board's amusement, including a $10,000-per-table function in January at the Fox Theatre that featured singer Travis Tritt. In case board members got weepy during one of Tritt's ballads, GBT made sure representatives from road-building firms were seated at their tables to hold their hands.

Some examples have included an all-expense-paid weekend at Sea Island. And lets face facts, these lobbyists do not spend $$thousands$$ upon thousands of dollars out of sheer kindness. They want something and are very willing to provide pay-offs to get it.

Another AJC story by Ariel Hart told about lavish treatment for members of the state DOT board at Callaway Gardens.

The table settings at the Callaway Gardens banquet gleamed against black tablecloths. A high school girls' choir kicked off the evening with a serenade. As diners took the black and white cloth napkins from their wine glasses, they were offered a choice of red or white, followed by an elegant dinner ending in a choice of desserts including a chocolate pyramid filled with white creme anglaise.

Praise for the event flowed from its honored guests, leaders of the Georgia Department of Transportation.

Before it was over, the hosts addressed the room. "We just hope you'll bring us a little money so we can do something!" said Danny Bridges, a Harris County commissioner, to laughter from the audience.

While this sanctioned bribery is wrong, it's not illegal. State law should be changed to hold them accountable. Can we petition our legislators to make additions to the Sonny Do List!?!?

Appeasement Is Not the Answer

2006-11-30T09:03:00.000-05:00

The war on terror has been waged in large part on fronts in Afghanistan and Iraq. Last summer we saw Isreal and Lebanon exchange blows. Spain & England have seen train stations blown-up. Southeast Asia remains a hot spot for bombings. Is there no end?

I am among those who believe the US execution of this war took several wrong turns. Nation building is noble, and policing warring factions has been a US role in many worldwide conflicts. But removal of clearly defined objectives has created a quagmire. Now we are looking at a "peace with honor" approach.

The AP report, Panel to call for U.S. pullback tells of the shift in US policy:

WASHINGTON - A bipartisan commission next week will unveil long-awaited
recommendations for a new U.S. policy in Iraq that a published report said would
call for a gradual pullback of U.S. troops there — without a timetable — and
direct diplomacy with Iran and Syria.

This scenario is crazy. Did we contact Soviet leaders to ask for help in Poland? Did we call Hitler to say, "We smell the smoke and some folks are missing, but can you help us straighten this out?"

With so much pressure to pull out of Iraq, the terrorists are sure to use every means available to weaken US resolve. Another AP report, Bush agrees to speedy turnover in Iraq, shows the Bush administration offering appeasement to Congress and the terrorists:

AMMAN, Jordan - President Bush said Thursday the United States will speed a
turnover of security responsibility to Iraqi forces but assured Prime Minister
Nouri al-Maliki that Washington is not looking for a "graceful exit" from a war
well into its fourth violent year.

I believe US military is better used when definitive objectives are defined. Since we have none, a pull-back and re-evaluation may be the best thing to do. Recall Bush's press conference on Spetember 20, 2001. He said that terrorists would be hunted down and pushed from one place to another until they were rooted out. Any nation harboring or providing assistance would be considered a hostile regime. He clearly issued a "With me or against me" warning. An utter failure to exercize the full might, wealth and resolve of the US and its citizens has now placed us in a tenuous & dangerous position of weakness.

My fears now revolve around weak-kneed appeasers who will open the floodgates, try to reason with stated enemies and hasten another major attack on US soil. I predict a major war is coming, one that could be avoided. Peace through strength has worked time and again, but losing nerve only beckons the schoolyard bully.

Bastions of Political Correctness

2006-11-25T19:38:00.000-05:00

This essay regards Clayton principal steps down; singled out Latino students, By S.A. Reid & Anna Varela. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, published on: 11/11/06

Principal Delphia Young of Forest Park High School may be out of work. She had real problems facing her that affect the school campus, its safety and environment. Those same problems are reflected in the community, yet there is no support for resolving and correcting the issues. Principal Young probably mishandled her approach and method, but for me she is a hero seldom seen in a public school setting.

The existence of gangs has long been reported in Clayton County. We all know their destructive impact on neighborhoods, communities – and the schools. Without discipline there can be no enforcement of order. Safety of regular folks, and school children on campus, must be someone’s responsibility. The more I consider the fate of Principal Young, the more I see a failure of the community, local government and the school board.

Health, safety and welfare of the citizenry are the first and primary responsibilities of government. That includes governmental agencies such as school boards. No lines in the sand and no enforced prohibitions mean tacit approval. In every aspect of society we see that lack of enforcement turn into abuses against the system and our communities.

Had Principal Young not gathered the 9th and 10th grade students for a showdown… Had she not used the “scared straight” method… Had she thought out the nature of the problem and devised an approach including local law enforcement, the school board, parents and the press… There is no excuse for intimidating kids, and she has apologized for taking that approach.

Unfortunately, Principal Young called the school’s Hispanic ninth- and 10th-graders to a meeting in the cafeteria earlier this month. Students reported that Young accused some of them of being gang members responsible for recent off-campus fights and said she told them she would call police and immigration officials into the school the next time a Latino student caused a problem.

Invoking immigration officials appears to violate the spirit of a 1982 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that guarantees immigrant students, including illegal immigrants, the right to attend k-12 public schools. Under the ruling, known as Plyler vs. Doe, schools are barred from seeking information about a students’ legal status or taking other action that could “chill” an immigrant student’s right to attend school. (AJC)

The ruling says nothing about gangs, discipline, safety or the educational environment. Those issues are better left alone, ignored, by boards of education. And that is exactly the position - Don’t ask, don’t tell – that every school system faces from illegal aliens and out of district students. My gripe is there is no accountability in regard to local taxation and funding regarding the costs incurred by the systems. Until the Supreme Court ruling is challenged… Until school systems lose their fear of the ACLU… Until taxpaying, legal American citizens are truly represented by school boards… this type of liberal thinking will continue.

The list of facts the AJC did not report would tell a different story. What is the true record of gang activity in the community, and specifically at the school? Is that gang activity limited to Latinos? Forest Park High School is 60 percent black, 20 percent Hispanic, 9 percent Asian and nearly 8 percent white. What discipline problems have been documented? What is the demographic breakdown by ethnic group? What methods have been tried toward enforcing safety and discipline that have not worked? What, if any, support is provided by local police or the INS?

In the same edition of the AJC we saw articles Clayton tries new tack to combat teen crime , and Growth of Hispanic population another challenge for Clayton schools. From 2000 to 2005, the number of Hispanics in Clayton rose by roughly 10,600 people, according to Census Bureau estimates. That may not sound like much, but it marks a 60 percent increase in the Hispanic population countywide. Such numbers are also reflected in Georgia’s statewide influx of Hispanics – the largest percentage in the nation. One can only surmise a corelation between changing demographics, teen crime and burdens on school systems.

Across the country eleven cities have enacted specific ordinances targeting illegal aliens. Fines for employers and landlords are on the agenda, even in Georgia’s Cherokee County. (AJC: Cherokee holding public hearing on landlord crackdown, 11/21/06) Since the federal government, bent on amnesty and open borders, remains mute on the subject, localilities are forced to act unilaterally. Court challenges are flying and some will surely rise to the Supreme Court. Citizens are saying, “If you are illegal you do not belong here,” and “We have an opportunity to stand for the rule of law.” At some point, somehow, we must believe that Americans will be represented by Congress. We must believe the Supreme Court will apply protections heretofor denied.

AJC Links:

Clayton principal steps down; singled out Latino students: http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/clayton/stories/2006/11/10/1111metprincipal.html

Clayton Tries New Tack to Combat Teen Crime:
http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/clayton/stories/2006/11/17/1118metcodered.html

Growth of Hispanic population another challenge for Clayton schools:
http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/clayton/stories/2006/11/19/1120metclayton.html

Cherokee holding public hearing on landlord crackdown:
http://www.ajc.com/metro/content/metro/cherokee/stories/2006/11/21/1122cheroimmigration.html

Global Economy, Shattered Idealism

2006-11-20T11:05:00.000-05:00

Some facts are hard to deny and portray a larger picture: General Motors and Ford are closing US plants, and both manufacturers are building cars in Mexico. Delta Airlines (a key to Atlanta’s economy) is on the rocks, high-tech jobs are increasingly outsourced, and US Steel is on the block. Many folks applaud the value of globalized markets, and plead the case for supply and demand. Some of us, though, see a kind of marketplace where people cannot achieve stability. Everything from available products to jobs is based on lowest cost, and America’s middle class is caught in the middle.

Our nation must balance protectionism with the benefits of world markets. We must address issues of national identity with regard to borders and immigration. The United States must define its role independently from the UN, Europe, and even the rising economic juggernaut of Communist China.

I recall my father telling about the 1930s, his teenage years. There was the Great Depression. There was farming. They did not buy milk; it came from Bessie. They did not buy vegetables; they came from the farm and were preserved for winter in Mason jars. Bread cost 5-cents a loaf. During the war everything changed: women took on “men’s jobs,” farm boys saw the world outside of Georgia, and everybody knew the objective was to protect America and eventually return to a normal life.

The definition of 'normal' would never be the same. After the war, people changed too. Women became a part of the workforce. They were no longer just wives, librarians and teachers. US companies stretched into every friendly nation. There were “starving kids in China,” as our mothers reminded us at the dinner table. There was only one real enemy in Soviet Russia, the only adversary with military or economic strength to challenge the US. We watched Wagon Train, Gunsmoke and John Wayne movies. America’s economy was strong; we had US Steel, General Motors and the Military-Industrial Complex. Things were changing, but we understood the world order and the US was on top of the heap.

Of course Korea and the Cultural Revolution of the ‘60s and Viet Nam provided new definitions to life. The 1930s farm boy harkened back to his early years, but he adapted. Not our changing military role; not even the tide of social changes altered his core beliefs that the US would remain the world’s dominant economic and military power.

Along came the 1970s and ‘80s when Japanese auto makers outsold US manufactures for the first time. Sam Walton revolutionized the retail industry. Computer technologies lead to huge gains in both the Amex and NASDAQ. By the end of the 1990s computer jobs were outsourced to India and the Pacific Rim. US manufacturers were forced to compete with low wages from overseas and government regulation – many simply folded. Layoff was the dreaded fate of many US workers. We all read about PhDs driving taxis in New York, and reality set in and redefined the American Dream. Idealism was replaced by finding work and just paying the bills.

On November 18, 2006 the AP and UPI reported several business items of note:
• New rules for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac will tighten the US home mortgage funding.
• Delta Airlines is in bankruptcy and a hostile takeover is on the horizon.
• Brazilian steel maker CSN is bidding for Britain’s Corus Group PLC, Europe’s second-largest steel maker.
• Russian firm OAO Severstal, with help of other Russian iron ore companies, is considering a bid for Pittsburg-based US Steel.

Cyclical ups and downs in the home building industry affect local economies, and the immigrant workers’ walk-out at the Smithfield Foods plant in North Carolina may affect the cost of your Thanksgiving ham. Yet we are told the service industry sector of the economy is going strong. All is not lost.

Many of us decry the onslaught of socialism in the United States. We compare our nation’s strengths and resolve to Western Europe and say, “we do not want that!” We cannot and will not forsake capitalism for communism. But we must look at the history and roots of European socialism to evaluate America’s path.

America is the social melting pot. It is the land of opportunity; and aside from oil rich emirates, we boast the largest number of millionaires. Our nation must balance protectionism with the benefits of world markets. We must address issues of national identity with regard to borders and immigration. The United States must define its role independently from the UN, Europe, and even the rising economic juggernaut of Communist China.

Our political, military and economic identity must be defended against terrorism and religious extremism and, to some extent, against competing markets. Americans cannot accept Universalism, one-world governance or lofty platitudes. Maybe we must recognize and respect that 1930s farm boy and his unwavering devotion to the United States above all else. Otherwise, our beloved nation will simply melt into the so-called level playing field of social and economic chaos.

Illegals

2006-11-14T06:11:00.000-05:00

Don’t tell me that Kerry or Schumer are misunderstood; that they really do not intend to show abhorrence for the US military. They are given a free pass to insult and belittle those men and women who provide the safe haven for their vitriol. These are the people who promote the socialism of Western Europe with all its weaknesses, and are ready to tell the world that the United States causes most of the world’s problems. Their concept of one-world order and government largesse will surely bring the same population and immigration problems now seen in Europe.

Don’t tell me that Georgia’s Democrats are innocents who truly care about voting rights. The debacle over free voter identification cards proves otherwise. It is not their concern that only legitimate, qualified American citizens vote. Their goal is to strengthen their assumed voter base using illegal aliens and others with dubious credentials.

Since the mid-term election last week every talking head on television, and paid analyst writing for the print media has wrongly explained the results. The reason is simple. When Democrats act like Republicans, they win; When Republicans act like Democrats, they lose. It is that simple. Republican members of Congress failed to complete the mission they were elected to perform – and they lost.

The great majority of losing Republicans were economic moderates or liberals. Congress spending like a drunken sailor was never anticipated by any faction of voters who put these folks in office. The whole idea of smaller government was lost. The onslaught of illegal aliens got their attention, but that problem was also given a pass to please “business interests” and make an effort to buy some votes. The religious right (not to be taken as a derogatory term) firmly believed they would get a constitutional amendment establishing marriage as between one man and one woman. Political correctness ruled the last Congress and voters felt betrayed.

On the immigration issue, even so-called conservative pundits have been catering to the mainstream press story line. They have said Republican losses were attributable to the hard line taken against illegal aliens. This is simply not true. It was the failure of Congress to pass meaningful legislation; not to mention the president’s amnesty program. Voters felt betrayed because they honestly thought the Republican leadership would place America and Americans first in all things.

The problem will not go away by itself. A combination of the president wanting a massive amnesty program, Democrats wanting Latino votes, and contributors to both parties wanting cheap labor will surely belay any positive near-term action. Yet the reasons for unrest and concern stare us in the face daily.

Last year Gwinnett County police formed a Quality of Life unit. Due to their efforts to clean up neighborhoods, the AJC reports, “Gone are the parked cars on lawns, debris piles and backyard chickens. Missing, too, are many of the immigrant tenants residing at the duplexes.” The daily number of day laborers at one Grayson Highway location has reduced from 75 to 20-30. Illegals – er, I mean day laborers – were arrested for trespassing, DUI and other offenses. In a week and a half in September, 79 citations were issued and 33 arrests made.

Health care cost is a huge problem in America. Many Americans cannot afford insurance, required by doctors and hospitals – if you are an employed US citizen. And constantly rising costs force families to pay more for decreases in coverage. Working, taxpaying Americans are in a real healthcare bind. Yet, Juanita easily crosses the border to deposit little Juan and, violá, Juan is given citizen status and Juanita has her anchor. Surely her siblings and cousins will soon follow. Their healthcare, education and needed services will also be provided, courtesy of the American taxpayer.

Open borders cost millions and millions in tax dollars! At Parkland Memorial in Dallas the costs exceeded $33 million in 2005. That is just one hospital. And that was just for pregnant mothers and delivery of babies! These costs were covered in large part by Medicaid (federal tax dollars) and believed to consist of 56% for illegal aliens. If we extrapolate that $18 million or so to follow the illegals across the country, the costs to taxpayers for anchor babies alone are staggering. Next add the impact to school systems, police agencies, property values and the economy.
The injection of large numbers of unskilled workers into the economy does not benefit the bulk of the population to any great extent. It benefits the nanny-and housecleaner-using classes; it benefits employers who want to pay low wages; but it does not benefit indigenous, unskilled Americans, who have to compete with immigrants willing to work hard for very low wages in unpleasant working conditions. The economy becomes dependent on a constant influx of immigrants who are willing to accept low pay and poor working conditions. That is what politicians mean when they insist that “services would collapse without immigrants”.

Social progressives across the country (as reported in the San Jose, CA Mercury News) lambaste US Rep. Charlie Norwood for his 2006 legislation requiring verification of US citizen before receiving Medicaid funds. It is positioned as “putting the babies’ health at risk” and “denying medical care” to America’s newest, smallest and most needy citizens. They have the task of winning our hearts by invoking pity and a sense of charity. The oldest tactic is, if you disagree then you are a bad person. Regardless of sound reasons against illegal aliens soaking the resources of our country, speak out and you are a nativist (yeah, a new word provided by liberal pundits) or a bigot or simply ignorant. Yes, ignorant of the magnificent benefits America gains from low wage workers who are only doing jobs Americans do not want. Never mind they introduce a foreign culture and language and have no intention to assimilate into the American way of life.

Let’s be honest, though. Congressional moderates and so-called conservatives (read RINOs) are allowing the left-wing to carry their water. Note they have been eerily silent on the real immigration issues. Both sets of hypocrites are abusing the illegals. On the one hand, there is a huge desire to gain a voting block. On another hand, there is cheap labor. Everyone, except the American taxpayer and the illegals, win something.

Why did the Republicans get a “thumping?” They ignored issues of real concern to America’s conservative voters. They refused to act, and the left-wingnuts Pelosi is backing for committee chairs will not act. There is a gamble and a prayer that real conservatives will emerge, willing to represent core American values and always place America first.

Winning Hearts & Minds

2006-11-14T06:07:00.000-05:00

Every political or social movement has a guiding philosopher who sets the initial premises. For communism it is Karl Marx. For democracy it is Thomas Jefferson. For contemporary socialism it is Maynard Keynes. For America’s social and economic engineers, self-proclaimed Progressives, the guru is Professor George Lakoff at UC Berkeley through his book, Don’t think of an Elephant: Know Your Values and Frame the Debate.

According to Lakoff,”If you work hard, play by the rules, and serve your family, community and nation, the nation should provide a decent standard of living…” Also, “Bring corporations under stakeholder control, not just stockholder control.” And there is this definition: “It is the job of government to promote and provide more freedom, a better environment, broader prosperity, better health, greater fulfillment of life….”

Political equality, economic equality, social equality. This all means an enormous central government that provides cradle-to-grave security and entitlements to our 300 million people. But who would rule such a government? It would certainly be enlightened souls who can judge human behavior and mandate social change to insure that justice is evenly distributed every time. Local, state and federal government – through elected representatives and myriad bureaucrats – is the vehicle through which wealth can be controlled and redistributed. Under the guise of a utopian dream Progressives have waged a war against traditional American values.

Americans are not ready for this political coup, so a strategy of Divide and Conquer is employed. Factions arise with a shotgun blast of battle fronts:

· removal of religious expression from public venues
· declaring religious faithful as ignorant bigots
· open borders
· civil rights for non-Americans
· abuse of eminent domain laws
· increased government spending… a list too long to print.

There are multiple battles to wage, and they are mounted simultaneously – mainly through their chief mercenary the American Civil Liberties Union. Battles that cannot be won outright are waged against the finances of targeted institutions. Checks in the Win Column exist because school systems, companies, social and even religious groups simply cannot withstand the costs of continual litigation.

They must win the hearts and minds of Americans, and a major step is to weaken and confuse the nation’s value system. Remember that most people are ignorant of the cultural and political imperatives in play, and many people simply believe whatever they are told by anchors at CBS, CNN or MSNBC. Worse yet, the bias and interpretive reporting portrayed in major newspapers like the AJC, NY Times, Washington Post are the primary “news” sources. Among the most successful tactics: If you disagree, you are a bad person. A pro-life person is “anti-women’s rights.” Against gay marriage, you are homophobic and terminally bigoted. A supporter of aggressive strategies against terrorists is a warmonger.

A major battle front exists here in Georgia. Introduction of legislation requiring a government issued voter identification hit the proverbial fan like a fresh cow patty in summer. Immediate responses portrayed Republicans (Georgia’s ostensibly conservative party) as rolling back the civil rights clock, returning to Jim Crow, disenfranchising blacks, poor & elderly. Never mind the objective was to reduce from 17 optional forms of identification. Never mind the idea was to thwart voter fraud. Never mind the fact the cards would be issued free of charge. No, the argument was framed around political equality. The ACLU marched in claiming the ID cards placed “undue burden,” thus stalling implementation of the law. At least for now, Progressives have maintained access to votes from illegal aliens and others with dubious voter qualifications.

The object of the game is political and economic power, not the stated utopian world of Kumbayah. No tradition, belief system, religion, economic or corporate entity is safe from attack. As fiscally conservative Americans we must acknowledge the subversive nature of this coup toward pure socialism. The truthful way to pose the issue is not simply as Democrat vs. Republican, or conservative vs. liberal. Such titles fall short by creating exclusionary classes of truly compatible people. The truth is purely about America - the United States - and the values and traditions that define us as a nation.

PC Beat the GOP

2006-11-14T06:05:00.000-05:00

The mainstream media played the Democrat tune: make the election about US involvement in Iraq. It is not that anyone believes our enemies do not exist, or that they would not destroy every American and the United States were it possible.

Yet nobody would acknowledge the real nature of the failures in our Iraq policies. Not the president, nor the few conservatives in Congress, nor any Democrat.

When Sadaam Hussein was removed from power, Bush 43 declared victory. His immediate steps took us into nation building, establishing a democratic outpost in the region, and filling a police role. It was unlike the Gulf War 1990-1991, when the US prematurely declared victory and pulled out. The limited scope of that engagement left the job less than half-done and actually served to weaken any US role in the region. Since 2003 Bush 43 has remained dedicated to fulfilling the mission, but the approach could not succeed.

Americans like to win. Winning means truly defeating the enemy and, in historical terms, exerting pro-American influence in the world. Concern for our image, placating our so-called French and Russian allies, allowing do-nothing appeasers in Congress to thwart foreign policy… these are the results of political correctness. Winning a war, and this is a worldwide war, would mean massive military engagement and laying waste to every battlefield. It is necessary to crush the enemy’s stronghold, demoralize his followers and remove his chains of supply, financial and military resources. Nation building would come later.

Bush 43 spoke the right words: “You are with me or against me.” He was inspirational, he was patriotic. But he was not prepared to commit the national resources necessary to identify and call to task the rogue nations and terrorists who mean us harm. Many Americans still believe in staying the course, and we recognize that Iraqi involvement is but one front in the war. The American people, regardless of political affiliation, know the world is not safe. And most people favor continued vigilance in the war on terror. Yet, as a nation, we can no longer accept “stay the course” rhetoric without knowing there is a clear desire and commitment to win.

Today the election is over. We see the results of waffling on the immigration crisis, creating a huge Medi-Care entitlement, refusal to veto even one spending bill. Bush 43 is now conciliatory toward the victorious Democrats. Within hours of the mid-term election results, hat in hand, he offered several olive branches that dismay conservative regulars: a minimum wage increase, amnesty for illegal aliens and replacement of Don Rumsfeld. The outcome could have been much different. The choice of political correctness at home and in foreign policy, and refusal to heed the conservative base, brought this about.

The lessons taught by previous residents at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue would have served Bush well. He missed class on those days, and his staff lacks the intestinal fortitude to remind him. During the last two years of Reagan’s presidency there was a Democrat Congress. But he remained an ideological and political leader. Amid massive criticism he stayed the course using every financial, military and diplomatic resource of the United States toward eventually forcing the downfall of communist USSR. The world changed. The Cold War was over. Free nations of the world were safe from nuclear holocaust.

Teddy Roosevelt provided several lessons in presidential leadership: his invitation of Booker T. Washington to the White House; his threat to nationalize mining interests to force reforms; his bold attack on railroad trusts; the Square Deal. He followed principles and took actions that cost him friends, supporters and reputation. He did the right things for no reason except they were right. The nation has been better for it.

Political winds continue to blow in every direction. Republicans lost in this election. Conservatives and conservatism did not lose, but have suffered a major setback. The base of liberty loving, religious, patriotic, fiscally responsible, small government citizens have suffered a setback. It is apparent there will be little guidance from the White House. Compromising Senators like McCain, exercising free agency instead of conservative leadership, will not fill the gap.

What this nation needs is a good, 5-cent cigar and a few truly conservative legislators. The Revolution of 1994 must be rekindled. New faces must now follow the guidance of that Contract’s framers. Else, in two years the liberal and socialist insurgency will have wrested complete control of our government.

Which End Is Up?

2006-11-14T06:00:00.000-05:00

The Dow Jones Average is holding above 12,000. Unemployment is now at 4.6%, and only 2% among college graduates. The Consumer Confidence Index is up.

But there are real anger points we hear every day. The Republican majority in Congress has failed to deliver on immigration, controlling spending, decisive and aggressive pursuit of victory in Iraq. They have not been conservative enough for the values voters who elected them to go all the way. Choose your poison, and ask yourselves whether a liberal, Democrat Congress would even come close.

Yet frustration is worsened by confusing messages. A border guard was sentenced to eleven years in prison for shooting a drug smuggler. A UT-Austin law professor (AJC Oct. 19) proclaims the US Constitution is flawed and the European model is superior. Liberals continually flood the media with negativity about “stolen elections,” comparisons of US troops to cruel despots of the Gulags and the Pol Pot regime, sermons on US inability to win against terror and that all foreign policy is misguided. There is a print and video barrage of mental and psychological abuse against the nation. We are told that Christian conservatives are mere uneducated buffoons.

We are reminded that ‘real liberals’ are rewarded with Congressional committee chairs and applause. Rep. Gerry Studds, a Democratic Congressman from Massachusetts served from 1973 until 1997. He was the first openly gay national politician in the U.S. In 1983, he admitted to having had an affair with a 17-year-old page in 1973. Studds was a descendant of Elbridge Gerry, the governor of Massachusetts who is commemorated in the word 'gerrymander'. He was the son of (Gerry) Eastman Studds, an architect who helped design the FDR Drive in New York City. Political Correctness places Liberal heroes and icons above reproach.

There is an organized, well financed strategy. It is imperative to convince voters that we, as a nation, are beyond repair. We must become one with the world, to the point of equalizing and normalizing ourselves with socialist and other failed economic & political systems. We must pursue dialog with purveyors of terror, because we simply cannot defeat them. We cannot act decisively against any nation, regardless of security threat, because we are already spread too thin. We must share our technologies and economic clout with the world, creating open and unrestricted trading partners – as the only way to insure our own security. We must eliminate poverty and therefore eliminate the anger that fosters terrorism. Clearly the United States is in a tenuous economic position, and we must accept and conform to a personality disorder called codependency to survive.

In truth there is no clash of cultures behind hatred of the United States. Culture is the one redeeming quality among nations; it fosters individuality and sense of self. The fact Americans must accept is that despots, tyrants and truly evil regimes arise and must be acknowledged realistically. Hatred of America’s uniqueness is found within our borders and often preached from the halls of Congress and echoed in our liberal media. The existence of worldwide terrorism is not new, and its personality is well defined throughout history. In its infancy the United States faced down Muslim marauders on the Barbary Coast. In the 20th century containment was pursued through alliances with Middle Eastern allies. Our embassies and naval vessels are bombed, attacks are suffered on our own soil, riots are shaking Paris, rail stations are attacked in Madrid and London. This eminent threat is not about cultural differences and cannot be resolved through appeasement.

This is a war. Although specific nations harbor, promote and finance the evil regimes defining and isolating the enemy remains illusive. It is not politically correct, and American Liberals will not tolerate, that America should aggressively pursue our enemies. It is not conventional war, and every political and economic weapon is used. In Spain, Al-Qaeda (and its followers) performed a successful test toward affecting national elections – with a bombed railway. Al-Qaeda repeated the scenario in London, and won the resignation of Prime Minister John Major. Neither France nor Germany will support sanctions against Iran’s nuclear programs because of economic and trading alliances. Our enemies have found apologists here at home, and their influence is broadly based.

The strategy from Liberal apologists is to divide the nation’s voters. Evangelical Christians who traditionally form the core of ‘values voters’ are sidetracked, told that global warming, caused by man, is ignored y Republicans. Since man is God’s caretaker and steward, Republicans are therefore evil. They are reminded that former Rep. Foley, a sexual deviant, is a Republican. Republicans are therefore evil. They are told that fighting terror is a no-win battle that is both illegal and immoral. Republicans are therefore evil. The all-out effort to gain power over the government is reminiscent of “Roosevelt’s gonna save us all.” You can almost hear a refrain of John Lennon’s,
“Imagine there’s no country
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too Imagine all the people Living life in peace”

Our own mid-term elections, three weeks from now, will surely be affected. If Liberal Democrats take over Congress, our enemies will have bragging rights.

Nuclear Politics

2006-11-14T05:57:00.000-05:00

President Bush has been distracted. He did not have his eye on the ball. Lil Kim was able to produce weapons grade nuclear material while the Bush foreign policy team did nothing. And now, amid tough talk, they are returning to the UN and sending letters to Lil Kim. Although I understand the letters are in all caps to show just how serious the US is about North Korea’s joining the nuclear-armed family.

Yes, Bush has been distracted by a worthless and endless conflict in the wrong war, at the wrong time. Iraq has completely overshadowed meaningful foreign policy. If only Rice had taken advantage of the detailed, step by step plans put into motion by the Clinton administration. Surely North Korea would by now be an ally, a trading partner, and have no ability to produce nuclear weapons or delivery systems to threaten the world. No, the plan to give North Korea nuclear technology, talk about peace and move forward as equal partners respecting each other’s sovereignty was all forsaken by Cowboy Diplomacy!

Today Selig Harrison, former Washington Post bureau chief in Northeast Asia, explained the Bush failures with North Korea. Remember that Clinton gave Lil Kim the technology and built their reactor. In exchange, Lil Kim promised that only electricity would be generated – nuclear power for peaceful purposes. The Clinton deal was (and remains) the best approach, as Harrison says, because the recent nuclear test was only a last-ditch effort to jumpstart a bilateral dialog on the normalization of relations. We now have new diplomatic opportunities.

Let us continue with the Clinton Plan. After all diplomacy is an art, and standing firm in the protection of the United States and its allies and its interests can only serve to alienate and upset the North Koreans. We must never contemplate regime change by any method. It is truly in the United States best security interest to enter into bilateral negotiations. The US should press North Korea to suspend further nuclear and missile testing while negotiation and normalization proceeds. Two major considerations must rule the day: the US has no business telling North Korea what they can and cannot do, and after all, they are a sovereign nation to be respected and ultimately trusted.

The Beijing Agreement (September 2005) specifically stated, in Article One, that North Korea would “abandon all nuclear weapons and existing nuclear programs.” But Lil Kim says the world must learn to coexist with a nuclear North Korea. He only wants dialog AND open trade AND entry into the international banking system AND removal from the US list of terrorist nations AND multilateral aid from the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and the Asian Development Bank.

All the while the nuclear and missile programs have continued, a missile was launched across Japanese territory, and the ever-trustworthy Communists proclaimed, “We will not completely and finally dismantle our nuclear weapons program until our relations with the United States are fully normalized.” Just days ago a North Korean official threatened to launch a nuclear-tipped missile if sanctions were imposed. Possessing nuclear weapons will force the world, specifically the United States, to normalize and equalize and jointly sing Kumbayah. After the sing-a-long billions upon billions of dollars will be poured into North Korea's coffers. The lying, conniving Commy dictator is using the threat of nuclear power in hopes the last, best hope for liberty in the world – the US – will roll over and ultimately agree to finance his failed economy.

The truth is simple and clear. Lil Kim is the least capable fly buzzing around the table. He is acting out so that the big kids will recognize him. But his act is a major test for the United States. It must be considered that China is simply using their little trading partner to test US resolve. Iran, to be certain, is watching carefully to gauge US reaction and to determine whether there truly are consequences for developing nuclear weapons. Writing letters and talking tough (ala UN resolutions) is little deterrent when the new kid brings nuclear weapons to the playing field.

John Kennedy’s inaugural speech included strong praise for the United Nations and even said that nuclear weapons should be controlled “by all nations.” A lofty thought and a real expression of cooperation with our neighbors throughout the world. But that was a time when nobody – not the USSR, China, Iran… nobody – would challenge US resolve without sure and swift punitive response. There would have been no USS Cole bombing, or US Embassy bombings, and certainly no bombs in the basement of the WTC. We were the Good Guys; we knew it and we lived it.

I doubt that Jack would be proud of his bother Ted, Pelosi, Durbin, Murtha, their media lapdogs or the rest of America’s left-wing. Being a Democrat now is nothing like the Party in Jack’s day. Especially in terms of foreign policy today’s appeasers could learn some hard lessons from their forebears like Jack or Truman or FDR. The old guys understood the proper use of power and strength, and America was better for it.

While we are talking our enemies are taking advantage of every perceived weakness. Every success of our enemies and every misstep in US strategic action cause too many Americans to lose faith in who we are and what this nation really is. Faith without works is dead, and the time for talk and appeasement is long passed. Our continued failure to provide quick and decisive action will certainly lead our enemies to call our proverbial hand – then real, unfathomable worldwide conflict will be upon us.

Tolerance

2006-11-14T05:52:00.000-05:00

Common sense is said to evolve from that list of prejudices we learn or acquire by the age of 18. Soon after we leave home to experience the outside world, everything is questioned, tried at least once, and almost never meets the standards taught by parents, family, pastors or school teachers. That is how we “grow up.” Another adage, attributed to Winston Churchill, says, “If you are not a liberal in your youth you have no heart. If you are a liberal in old age, you have no brain.” Does our youthful urge to push the envelope require adoption of a less conventional mindset? I would say so.

I know about tolerance. It is not the same as described by Goethe as “a transitional attitude, one which must lead to the acceptance of equality.” No, tolerance is best described in the way my father used the term toward my brothers and me. Any time we used bad language, disobeyed, or displayed a non-conforming attitude he would say, “I will not tolerate it.” It concerned what was acceptable and allowable. His words carried deep meaning about how to think, how to act and that consequences would follow. There was never a presumption of equality or transitional acceptance. There was right and wrong.

But Dad’s military background and strict discipline were tempered by another force. My mother was an alcoholic and from that we learned other lessons about tolerance. There are circumstances and conditions we cannot control. There are people we cannot control. What is left, after many years and much reflection, is a learned method of applying toleration: we must choose what is acceptable or allowable, and under what terms or conditions.

An appeaser is one who feeds a crocodile, hoping it will eat him last. An enabler feeds the weakness of others (like giving alcohol to a drunk “to ease the pain”), thereby feigning moral superiority. Both appeasers and enablers abound in America. We can and must learn to discern their motives toward determination of what is acceptable.

U.S. District Judge J. Owen Forrester is now maligned as a person of power who has arbitrarily revoked the “favor of tolerance.” Phil McKnight, chair of Georgia Tech’s School of Modern Languages, offered his reasoning in the AJC. Because a judge can rule that freedom of speech cannot be dictated by the school’s rules of tolerance, the moral compass of our educational system (perhaps our entire society) is at risk. He said, “This is a victory for those who are intolerant to exercise their intolerance toward groups they dislike.” The university’s code formerly prohibited attempts to injure, harm, malign or harass a person because of race, religious belief, color or sexual/affectional orientation. (US Constitution: 1, Political Correctness: 0)

This battle erupted because of the school’s selective enforcement of university speech codes. Members of Georgia Tech College Republicans say the school has “de-funded political and religious organizations at the same time it tries to teach us what our religious beliefs should be (to give you a hint: Georgia Tech prefers Buddhists over Baptists).” The College Republicans, Orit Sklar and Ruth Malhotra, defend the law suit because Georgia Tech had banned mainstream conservative speech as “hate speech.” They say the university consistently favored politically charged, leftist speech as part of the intellectual diversity valued by the school. David French, a lawyer for the Christian-based Alliance Defense Fund, said the court ruling is a victory for free speech.

Tolerance cannot be defined through control of our words, unless those words beget specific actions that deprive someone of life or liberty. Our words have power because they are the medium for expression of thought and beliefs. The advent of “hate speech” is simply invalid in the arena of ideas. Falling back onto a broader agenda of equal results, far-out professors and other political activists would deny use of language or freedom of expression to censor and silence their opponents. The mantra of political correctness rests at the core of this debate. Georgia Tech, like most U.S. universities, has overstepped their purpose of education and moved toward indoctrination.

We must acknowledge as untenable the ideal of absolute economic, racial/ethnic and social equality. No person or group has a “right” to institutionalized equality of results. No person has a “right” not to be offended.

Sometimes the smell test cannot be passed. Sometimes the wrenching in your gut cannot be quelled. Both methods of discernment concerning core beliefs of right and wrong are prevalent, and provide the basis for much political discussion. What we should defend is prescribed by our historical, cultural and religious education. What we must defend with all our might is the truth, whether we like it or not.

The Cold War v2

2006-11-14T05:51:00.001-05:00

Lest anyone think this nation is not at war, we are! I am reminded of Section 3, Article 1, of the Articles of War approved by Congress on 20 September 1776, which specified that the oath of enlistment read: "I _____ swear (or affirm as the case may be) to be true to the United States of America, and to serve them honestly and faithfully against all their enemies and opposers whatsoever. Today the oath of enlistment in US military service specifically recognizes that our nation has enemies within our borders. The current oath includes, "support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States."

Wow! The power of those words is awesome. The self denial required is almost unimaginable. A life dedicated to honoring, defending and protecting our nation. How many members of the US Congress, the mainstream press, or MoveOn spend their days denigrating the very meaning of those words?

Raised a military brat, I was always aware of honor, discipline and the tradition of fealty to the United States. Ask a Marine and learn that Semper Fi (Always Faithful) is not simply a slogan. My father, a Coastie for 31 years, ensured that I understood Semper Peratus (Always Ready) is a way of life. I argue that today's enemies pray we are not Faithful or Ready to defend our nation from either the domination of warring zealots abroad or the incipient socialist regime at home.

While power hungry politicians slander the president and his administration with lies, our mainline media outlets eagerly light the pyre for human sacrifice. We already know of the deliberate lies promulgated by Armitage at the State Department (Plame-gate), Dan Rather's demise, the truth about WMDs, and countless other smoke screens. There is no limit to, or concern for damage that may be caused to our nation; only power and control and ego are important. These people are the enemies of the United States.

We cannot assign real historical meaning to words like liberal and conservative, as the meanings have generational connotations. Jeffersonian Republicans evolved from espousing dedication to a republican, liberty defining government through representation of then-conservative beliefs into today’s Democratic Socialist Party. Left and Right invoke images of “Right hand of God” or nobles sitting at the Right Hand of the king. We should avoid purely religious themes or invocation of tyranny. The inability to correctly attribute single-term descriptions opens the door to interpretations and prevents addressing the basic issues. This treatise will use an acronym: AAF, to depict Anti-American Forces.

Ronald Reagan led a personal 40-year struggle against and final triumph over Communism. His story is presented in Reagan’s War by Peter Schweizer. His heartfelt beliefs and real life experiences revealed something more than a clash of political ideologies. He saw an epic battle between Good and Evil. His declaration of the Soviet Union as an evil empire drew criticism from AAF. His policies utilizing every economic, diplomatic and military resource were understood by AAF, but opposed because the objective was two-fold: defeat evil and strengthen the United States.

At the heart of AAF ideology is Marxism, defining every struggle in economic terms. They hate personal liberty, personal responsibility and self reliance in any traditional American sense. They cannot understand or accept the concept of evil, and The Greater Good is defined as social and economic equality. For example, the problem of crime among America’s minorities is not related to cultural or moral values, but is purely the result of economic inequality – poverty. It is all about Bourgeoisie vs. Proletariat. AAF icons Lenin, Marx and Stalin created a ruling, privileged class. Not unlike the nobles hand-picked by a king. That is the worldview, and their entitled position of power, the AAF promotes.

Author Dennis Prager says the reasons for AAF refusal to label evil are not only psychological: fear of confrontation, fear of fighting, fear of dying, loathing of authority figures (whether parental, divine, etc.). They are ideological. The AAF has different values from the rest of us. Regarding anti-Americanism, since the mid-1960s, AAF abandoned liberal anti-Communism in favor of anti-anti-Communism. Their denial of evil did not allow opposition to the mass murderers of Beijing, Moscow, Hanoi, Phnom Penh, and Pyongyang. Rather they declared evil-fighters (specifically the US) as being evil. Hence, condemnation as imperialist, degenerate capitalists came to America and a handful of other nations that openly opposed communistic ideology.

The horrific attack on US soil on 9/11 changed policies, perceptions and worldviews for most Americans. The unthinkable had happened, and the enemy from abroad was unlike anything we had ever encountered. For the AAF it posed a huge dilemma: someone like Timothy McVeigh was easily called evil because he came from the fringe Right, but labeling Islamic terrorists as evil has not been possible. Again and again, they repeated the mantra, “What has America done to make them hate us?” Surely we can talk and seek approval from non-allied nations or the America-hating UN, but we cannot mount a realistic policy of demonstrating America’s strength and resolve.

The AAF will not publicly acknowledge the facts: that Imam is appointed by God and is therefore infallible. The authority of the Messenger of Allah upon the believers is unlimited and all-comprehensive. Any order given by him, under any condition, in any place, at any time, is to be obeyed unconditionally. Since the seventh century some fundamentalist extremist Muslims have misinterpreted some words and sentences that are written in the Qur’an, such as “Jihad” (holy war), “Mujahideen” (holy warriors), Kuffar” (infidels), martyrs, martyrdom, and so forth. Radical extremists have been completely brainwashed. They think if they kill the infidel Christians and Jews, who are the enemy of Islam, they will be martyrs, enter heaven. Openly acknowledging the true nature of this threat to the US would disallow a major platform in the AAF agenda, so they must take the side of the enemy!

Living through a decade of attacks and continuing threats to the United States has only strengthened AAF positions and political rhetoric. Politicizing the nation’s efforts against this heinous and challenging enemy simply diverts attention from their true agenda. In a country where local to national elections provide only 20 – 40 percent of eligible voters, AAF subversion is already working. In The Shadow Party author David Horowitz provides a detailed historical perspective on AAF movements.

Declaring that President Bush is singularly more dangerous than Islamic terrorists, financier George Soros denounced Bush for “equating freedom with American values.” Through the Open Society Institute and Soros Foundation Network, former Sixties radicals found a well funded vehicle for regime change in America. Institute and Network president Aryeh Neier was founder of Students for a Democratic Society. The SDS was most responsible for fanning anti-war flames in the Vietnam era, and then transformed itself into the Weather Underground which “declared war on ‘Amerikkka’” and bombed the Pentagon and US Capitol.

Neier worked for the ACLU 15 years, serving as director 1970-1978. Morton Halperin, mentored by Neier, directed the ACLU’s Center for National Security Studies which sought to cut US defense spending and hamstring US intelligence capabilities. More recently one of Halperin’s principal assignments on the Soros Team is to battle post-September 11 policies that threaten civil liberties of Americans.” Somehow the protections of American civil liberties and rights under America’s system of jurisprudence have extended to non-citizens, terrorists and combatants detained through the war on terror. Even the Geneva Conventions do not apply to non-national, non-uniformed guerilla fighters.

Between 1998 and 2004 Soros’ Institute gave nearly $19 million to the ACLU. During that time the ACLU stayed busy clogging courts with lawsuits to stop the use of military commissions, forbid harsh interrogations of terrorist suspects, allow Muslims to wear head coverings to obscure their identity in government ID photos, block the NSA from intercepting communications between terror suspects, and much more.

According to AP reports in 2000, front organizations like ACORN and the Working Families Party were “created to help push the Democratic Party toward the left.” People like Hillary Clinton are key factors to the movement and its necessary infiltration of the American middle class. Hillary’s mentor Saul Alinsky wrote Rules for Radicals and once offered Hillary a job with his Industrial Areas Foundation.

Using historical methods of communist and socialist infiltration, Hillary has served as the perfect spokesperson for regime change even to the point of cultivating a “moderate” or “centrist” public image. Alinsky was a master of infiltration. He said, “Even if all the low-income parts of our population were organized – all the blacks, Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, Appalachian poor whites - it would not be enough to get significant, needed changes.” Revolution had to come gradually by manipulating institutions with deep roots in the community such as churches, unions, ethnic organizations and local political machines. His stated target: “America’s white middle class, with a special role for white, middle class activists such as Hillary Rodham, whom he saw as potential emissaries to the American heartland.”

To what end? In Soros’ own words, for “regime change in the United States.” Seven months after American troops entered Iraq in 2003, and just before the first Democratic primaries, Soros charged that “extremists had seized the American government and were seeking to dominate the world.” In 2005 Soros’ Open Society Institute helped launch the Progressive Legislation Action Network (PLAN). Partners in the project included Soros-funded Center for American Progress (run by former Clinton chief of staff John Podesta), Soros-funded MoveOn, the AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, and the United Steel Workers. Led by democratic activists David Sirota and Steve Doherty, its purported mission is to seed state legislatures with pre-written, “model” legislation reflecting their leftist goals.

We are at war. The radical AAF has found a home in the co-opted Democratic Party. The Democratic leadership loves Western Europe because the EU is composed of welfare states where socialism is the way of life. They cannot envision a world without the UN because it is actively anti-US, anti-freedom, anti-liberty and anti-capitalist. Infiltration and subversion of American ideals, institutions and values is well under way.

Former Secretary of Education, now author William Bennett provides a clear perspective about America and its unique role in the world. His book, America, the Last Best Hope is a no-spin look at America’s history from 1492 to 1914. He quotes Ronnie Reagan saying, “If we forget what we have done, we will forget who we are.”

The Talibaptists

2006-11-14T05:43:00.000-05:00

The Al Jazeera Constipation featured a guest editorial by Leonard Pitts, a Miami Herald columnist. As usual, I was insulted by the anti-Christian position and categorical denunciation of Florida’s Katherine Harris for expressing her religious beliefs during a campaign. Pitts simply followed the drive-by media template by framing everything about Harris as dangerous or fraudulent. The AJC deemed a piece about a UGA frat house worthy of online publication, but not this one – so no link is available.

Harris gave an interview with the weekly newspaper of the Florida Baptist State Convention. In it she said the separation of church and state is a “lie” and warned that if Christians don’t stand for election, we will end up a “nation of secular laws.” We must consider her audience and her supposed freedom of self expression. Her follow-up statement drew the ire of some Christians, Jews and at least one atheist: “… If you are not electing Christians, then in essence you are going to legislate sin.”

The atheist condemned Harris’s “religious bigotry.” It’s odd that a professed non-believer in God would attack bigotry on religious grounds. As an atheist he has chosen exclusion from the class which Harris represents. The incongruity of an atheist claiming discrimination by professing believers leaves me scratching my head.

Harris is a religious fanatic. She is a “train wreck,” to quote Pitts, while he acknowledges that the forces of Christian fundamentalism have made terrific inroads into the Republican mainstream. Yet his argument continues that the GOP’s Christians want a theocracy. Pitts seems to contradict himself, at least in the consistency of his rhetoric. On the one hand, only knuckle-dragging Neaderthals profess and proclaim devote religious faith. Yet, that same group represetns an educated, sophisticated political and social entity. Such blather from the anti-Christian Left has become commonplace fodder. If not for the un-religious or devoutly secular among us, the mantra would fall on deaf ears.

Here is the crux of it. Pitts says, “After 25 years of watching the Talibaptists take over school boards, mayor’s offices, the presidency – 25 years of watching them grow ever more bold in encroaching the rights and freedoms of their fellow Americans – I take Harris at her word.” His cute comparison to the truly oppressive, murderous fascists engaged in a war against our nation betrays his own agenda. His use of President Bush’s “take them at their word” comment declares American Christianity equal in nature and evil intent to the very enemy we are fighting.

ACLU lawyers make a living at denouncing every aspect of Christianity and religiosity in the public forum. The liberal mantra is all about our Constitution being a living document that must be changed or reinterpreted to meet evolving societal norms. It proves their inability to accept authority over ego. The so-called ‘wall of separation” really is bogus because the only real Constitutional prohibition concerns creating laws in regard to an establishment of religion. Believers have become educated to the perversion of our Constitution over the last 50 years. Believers know and revere the prohibition against recreating the Church of England. They also know the historical and traditional role of righteous people in government.

Religious people have certain rules based on a book about faith with a lot of witnesses to that faith. God is not a Secret Santa. His commands are not whatever we want them to be, and the Bible is not a “living document.” Unlike the liberal’s pseudo-religion of secular self gratification, for Christians and other believers morality exists outside of egotistical, materialistic, fickle megalomania. The true believer’s rules are decreed by a legislator whose opinions are not subject to appeal by the ACLU. The true believer cannot discover transient circumstances that may suddenly allow endorsement of the latest socially or politically correct fad.

That is why today’s liberals fear the true believer, the true patriot, the dedicated public servant. These are people who recognize and respect truth, honor and authority. Secularists are constantly comparing Christians to Nazis, and now to the Taliban, but it’s always the godless that cut off the heads of the infidel. By their deeds you will know them.

By the way, Katherine Harris won the primary.

Comfortably South of Atlanta

2006-11-14T05:41:00.001-05:00

The Chamber of Commerce spent a lot of money for a marketing firm to give us a perfectly false slogan. The truth would suite better, “Profit Before Planning!”

Henry County offers the best in trailer park living. The new Timber Ridge trailer campuses even have double-wide bathroom trailers. What more could we ask of our elected representatives? Surely allowing anything for buck developers to set growth policy is not the answer.

The Board of Commissioners is at fault. They see our land use plan as a guide. A very expensive compilation provided by outside consultants and county staff – not to mention many meetings for public input. Yet is it worthless because the Board will violate it at the first meeting after it is adopted.

Time after time the request for high density residential development is approved. Sometimes against the recommendations of the Planning & Zoning Commission. The “smart growth” crowd insists that that their profit-motivated economies of scale provide the best growth policy. And they finance political campaigns! After $5,000 in contributions from one developer, Chairman Harper insured that Kelly Plantation would proceed on McDonough’s Willow Lane. Plus, a $1 million kickback was paid by the county because the developer graciously offered to build a road through the 1200 dwelling units.

The School Board is at fault because of poorly managing construction of the real Timber Ridge Elementary school. The first builder was fired. A second was hired, and he immediately advised of poor construction that should be re-done. But no, the BoE continued on top of shoddy work already completed. Now that second builder has been fired. He tells of foundation problems and faulty load-bearing walls. But the construction continues. In the meantime we have nearly 500 kids packed into trailers at two existing elementary schools: East Lake and Pleasant Grove. Folks this overload does even count the 49 trailers at East Lake Middle and the fact that Union Grove High is now surrounded by trailers.

Recently Superintendent Jack Parish led a charge of twenty-two like-minded administrators challenging Gov. Perdue’s requirement to lower class size. The schools already vanquished the Para-Pro positions, so each teacher is left to their own devices to handle the exploding classroom populations. The change was to lower the number of students from 30+ to 23. Somehow we must understand Jack’s thinking. How many kids can we stuff into a trailer? Perhaps the method was learned by watching a mound of ants!

We are not getting responsible government from either elected body. And this is an election year.

Voter Apathy: Problem & Cure

2006-05-29T05:52:00.000-04:00

Voter Apathy – The Problem

Why do so few people vote? Especially in local elections the turnout is low, which allows 20% – 30% of registered voters decide our future. We typically find that folks become active in politics during campaign season because of short-term need for their attention. On average about 10% call themselves activists who stay in contact with elected officials and comment on their actions. There are reasons for lack of interest and frustration.

Lee Holman said it clearly: Regarding strict enforcement of zoning ordinances, code enforcement and adherence to the adopted land use plan, Holman said, “The land use plan is a State requirement only, not land classification.” As always, Holman spoke the truth. But he also defined the disconnect between what voters believe and how the Board truly operates.
How many times have we attended public meetings, answered questionnaires, voiced opinions and voted for “managed-growth candidates?” How many times have we seen the Board of Commissioners overturn recommendations of their appointed Planning and Zoning Commission? How many times have we seen the BoC return a zoning decision that violates existing surrounding land uses and the adopted land use plan?

The Plan we hire consultants to create, hold meetings to gain taxpayer input, and influence commissioners to adopt is a sham! Having one is required by local government in order to appease the Atlanta Regional Commission, remain in compliance with state law, and to ease the path to receiving grant money. Nowhere in the definition do we find “required adherence to a stable, predictable land use formula.” There is no enforcement besides the six members we elect to the BoC. And they regularly allow financial supporters and political influences to set our land use policy.

Apathy? It is more about frustration and powerlessness. Even when a managed-growth candidate is elected, he quickly learns some rules guiding the “mechanics of Henry County.” Each commissioner must support another’s desires in order to get support for projects in his own district. It is a go-along-to-get-along game. Each commissioner must remain vigilant and provide political cover for the people who financed his campaign. Each commissioner has one vote and violating The Rules will quickly render him an outcast whose reputation and projects will be treated negatively by the board.

Who can you trust? After election few people continue to wear the white hat we see during campaigns. But there are some. After the learning curve and, if Providence allows, a dedicated public servant will stand alone when necessary. But it is rare. In the end we cannot depend on the board to stay the course that we believe is outlined in ordinances and the land use plan. That is why we voters just stay home and gripe about what happens on the BoC.

Voter Apathy - The Cure

Why do so few people vote? It is because most do not really know the candidates or the issues they must face. It is up to us, the voters, to know what we want and who will best fill our needs. After all, we pay taxes and we live here. And we must understand our job is not over on Election Day – responsible government comes from our constant vigilance.

In the current races for open commission seats every candidate has echoed the same major concerns facing the county: Responsible growth; transportation improvements; and infrastructure upgrades. Every candidate says they want to represent the needs and desires of the residents. When we are given generic, simple answers none of them are very appealing.
So we must attend forums and speeches so we can get to know something about the candidates. Either we will keep the incumbents and accept The Rules they govern by, or we can boot them out. Who do we choose? How do we choose?

We have to use our brain just a little. When we consider the incumbent we only have to look at the record to know if we got what we wanted or expected. This is not a personality or beauty contest! Did the sitting commissioner perform as we wanted? Simple enough.

When a candidate speaks we must listen carefully. Not only to what they say, but even closer to hear what they do not say. For example, a statement like “I support commuter rail as an answer to traffic” proves a hidden agenda. There has been too much published about low expected riders, 50-year tax subsidy, and increased taxes. A simple answer may sound ok, but it also tells us what the candidate may be hiding. Specifically, it says who really stands behind this candidate and what policy agenda will come out after the election.

The same thing applies to a comment like “Jason Harper has resolved that [with One Henry]." The answer comes directly from the Leland Maddox/Jason Harper playbook. It reveals lack of understanding about enforcing intergovernmental agreements. And it shows ignorance that One Henry has been rejected by two of our four cities. This candidate looked sincere before resorting to a prepared statement that relied on false political hype.

A closer look at who is promoting a candidate is very important. We can easily find ties to old, failed regimes. We easily see attempts to regain past glory. Be warned that most well financed candidates truly represent the same people who gave us crowded schools, traffic congestion, high taxes and no real representation on the BoC.

You have the answers. You just have to pay attention. Remember elections are not about personality and beauty and fancy words. It is about ensuring we get responsible government.

The Company You Keep

2006-05-07T08:01:00.000-04:00

Population increases stress resources and our ability to maintain quality of life. Yet, population fuels the housing industry. That economic sector has for years held huge influence over our board of commissioners, mayors and councils. The evidence is in campaign financing, zoning enforcement, code enforcement and political positions and actions of Henry’s Chamber of Commerce.

The results are seen in the county’s growth plans that advocate higher density development; traffic gridlock; schools at twice capacity; annual water use restrictions; new taxes to manage wastewater impact; and, Henry having the fourth highest property tax among metro Atlanta’s counties. We are exceeding capacity. Our problems do not reflect “living comfortably south of Atlanta.” And it does not require Einstein to know the same kind of old thinking cannot resolve the issues.

The formulas must change. That means the people in elected office must change. Chamber of Commerce executive director Kay Pippin addressed the South Metro Development Outlook Conference on January 31. She said Henry County has been a developer's dream since early in 1990s, "and that dream has manifested itself into the county being the second fastest growing county in Georgia."

While millions in tax dollars are at stake the Chamber continues its fight for commuter rail – and opposition to a referendum. The AJC labeled lawmakers as dishonest for wanting accountability and open debate before future tax dollars are spent. The real lying hypocrites are hiding their true agenda: raise taxes to subsidize development! Like Ms. Pippin said, “[Commuter Rail] could completely change the appearance of that side of the county and lead to all sorts of positive change." While the Chamber’s fight includes public statements and clandestine emails to legislators, several Chamber members with land investment along the proposed rail line are the real promoters!

The Chamber’s role as political action committee must be considered. Which legislators have been threatened for refusing to go along with them? (The ones insisting on honest accountability) And, which candidates will have their support? Remember that Ms. Pippin told the Atlanta Business Chronicle, “We grow houses. It's the truth. Like many counties, once known for agricultural products, now Henry County grows houses." Knowing their allegiance tells a lot about which candidates are in that camp!

Gerry Adams, incumbent District 4 commissioner, betrayed Henry’s taxpayers. He voted against supporting HB1033 which would have given taxpayers a referendum before our taxes could increase to pay for the rail. At the same time Chairman Harper and Commissioner Holder also voted against support for HB 1033 – but they are not candidates this year. For reasons only Gerry Adams can say, he supported the Chamber’s money and influence over the taxpayers of Henry County.

Another District 4 candidate is Phil Crosby. He is the guy Adams unseated in 2002, largely because Crosby’s voting record as commissioner showed some real questions about conflicts of interest. Crosby’s employer back then was a powerful developer, one whose name is nearly synonymous with our Chamber of Commerce. The same developer supported Kay Pippin for state representative in 2000 – a failed candidacy. Almost immediately, Pippin was hired as the Chamber’s executive director. Then in 2002, Crosby hired Pippin as a political consultant in his campaign for re-election to the county commission – another failed campaign.

These words of warning about political allegiances and power brokering are offered honestly. Like the great Titanic, our USS Henry is taking on water. Real vision for the future must take root now. What kind of communities do you want for yourself and your family? What kinds of tax burdens do you want foisted upon us without a referendum?

You must decide what is really important. Carefully examine the candidates for county commission seats. Which ones are truly capable and willing to manage our resources, taxes and quality of life? The only way to change the formula is by voting in the July Primary Election.

Henry's Ruling Class

2006-05-07T07:59:00.000-04:00

If you read the newspapers you know that our representative form of government, in fact the legitimacy of our electoral process, is under attack. Not from outside forces, but our own self-appointed ruling class.

Here is a definition of "republic" obviously unknown to the socialists peddling influence on public policy for Henry County. "It is a political order in which the supreme power lies in a body of citizens who are entitled to vote for officers and representatives responsible to them."

Dana Lemon, an appointee to the state transportation board, fears the loss of power. She "thinks the question undermines prior board votes," and "[a referendum] takes away the need for representative government, and this is unfortunate." She continues to echo the agenda of Henry’s Chamber of Commerce and a handful of people who stand to reap huge profits from development along the rail line. The first problem is that we did not elect Kay Pippin, Dottie Wise or appointees on the transportation board. The next problem is their ignorance and disregard for honest accountability we expect from elected officials. Their attempts to spend our tax dollars are purely elitist and wrong.

Wise labels the state budget provision to approve rail projects through the legislature as "secret." Let's look at the principle of it. The members of the Transportation Board are unelected. Their actions must be held accountable to the legislature. Legislative approval is a good first step to prevent wasteful spending. But our Chamber of Commerce cannot have that! Their influence peddling would come to a grinding halt.

The Henry Republican Party has placed a question on the ballot for the July Primary. It is non-binding but asks whether we should be able to vote on a transit system that is financed with county taxes. Millions of dollars - Clayton County has committed to $4 million annually. Of course Dana Lemon doesn't want to hear the voice of the people so she blasted it. She calls it "unfortunate." The appointed voices of socialism are remaining vigilant in their fight against taxpayers.

Jason Pye, state and county chairman of the Georgia Libertarian Party has publicly called for Dana Lemon, Dottie Wise and Kay Pippin to resign their posts and issue a public apology to the voters and taxpayers of Henry County. He said, "Bad and irresponsible government is letting an unelected political hack like Dana Lemon and two power hungry representatives, Dottie Wise and Kay Pippin, of an already powerful special interest group control the legislative process and work against the people."

What is really sad is that commission chairman Harper and commissioners Holder and Adams formally voted non-support for legislation that would have guaranteed a referendum. They joined the chorus of betrayal, surely in hopes of cementing political support from the socialists.

The county will elect representatives for both commission districts four and five this year. Given the relentless pursuits of our Chamber of Influence Peddling, we must know which candidates have sold their souls to these special interests. Watch for endorsements and campaign contributions. Choose carefully, but do vote on July 18.

Refusal of the Line

2006-04-13T06:21:00.000-04:00

April 12, 2006

America saw conflict grow into revolution in 1776. Early Americans were willing to die for personal, political and economic liberty. Some still felt loyalty to the mother country. Some believed a war was not winnable or the costs too high. Among the Patriots were rich and poor, educated and ignorant. But they shared a belief from which was born a new nation. Two hundred thirty years later our proud heritage and culture is again faced with a kind of revolution.

During June 1863 Colonel Josh Chamberlain literally saved Little Round Top, and thwarted a Confederate siege on Washington, by ordering a complex military maneuver called “refusal of the line.” Risky and subject to fail, extending his line and angling position protected his flank. It made his smaller force impenetrable. We must again “refuse the line” so many are attempting to break.

In 1971 Frito Bandito was banished from commercial use. The Mexican-American Anti-Defamation Committee (more hyphenated-Half-Americans) claimed racism. They protested publicly that the Bandito spread the message that “Hispanics are sneaky thieves.” In truth Bandito devised some ingenious ways to fleece gringos of their corn chips.

The "Mexican bandit" cliché often seen in western movies has a new twist. Americans are still getting fleeced – in medical care, education, low wages and political corruption. Today they are crossing the border, not as guests but as a thief in the night. The Hispanic Invasion is a result of CAFTA, porous borders and corrupt politicians. U.S. business interests buy-off politicians to sustain cheap labor. Un-American socialists rally to the cause on so-called moral grounds. And the most hideous fact is that neither our Congress nor the Georgia legislature will grow a spine to protect our borders, security or economy.

They desire liberties only the United States can offer. Yet they refuse the culture, language and legal system those liberties entail. The thousands of illegals marching in the streets don’t care about citizenship. They know they can achieve protected status, and literally steal all rights of citizenship. The illegals flaunt their anchor babies. They work to send U.S. dollars back across the border. Crowded into apartments or houses with fifteen to twenty fellow laborers, standing on corners seeking day labor, accepting low wages and no benefits, these people now comprise America’s under-class. People seeking a socialist and ultimately classless society, or those who strive for oppressive control, “champion” the illegals’ cause, but are truly seeking corporate profit or a new voting bloc.

The line is drawn. Frito Bandito may not be America’s enemy, but neither is he entitled to rights of citizenship. Our laws, culture, language, tax dollars and heritage as a country is on that line. We must not allow politicians or businesses, in league with illegal immigrants, to violate our hard-earned American core values. Again, we must order a refusal of the line. Those weak-kneed members of Congress and the state legislature will hear your orders on Election Day.

Silver Bullets

2006-04-02T21:23:00.000-04:00

March 29, 2006

Voters: Use Your Silver Bullets

They may go in honest, but they come out as crooks. Why do we so often believe that politicians are dishonest? Can it be their relentless pursuit of power, re-election and gluttony for our tax dollars?

Citizens seldom understand the environment and circumstances elected officials must work through. Whether it is a city council, county commission or the state legislature a culture of power, ego and compromise exists. It is nearly impossible for Average Joe to comprehend that a guy he believed in could fail to act on principle alone. All the pressures come to bear and the best intentioned official will be unable to make Average Joe understand the game.
If voters wanted to watch a game, Monday Night Football is on television! We expect and deserve more from those we trust to represent us in government!

Party Leadership is one pressure point. A freshman representative or senator is expected to follow like sheep when the Leadership designates a course. The new kid cannot openly challenge the old guard without seeing their own efforts thwarted in committee (if their bill even gets that far). Another expectation is to show proper respect for tenured officials. Never vote against a senior member of your delegation, it is just not proper.

Among county commissioners there is a Go-Along Rule. Each commissioner is expected to support whatever a colleague may desire for that other district. That is how to gain the colleague’s support on your own projects. The same Rule applies to public disagreement with “stated policy,” whatever the majority voting bloc decides that may be. In a sense there is a certain honor among thieves principle at work.

Both of these scenarios describe the transformation that occurs after getting elected. In a culture bent on self preservation and personal ego, the “honest candidate” soon begins to look and act like the old political hacks we have grown to distrust. It is not easy to know how, or when, to compromise and still maintain core principles that got you elected. It seems impossible to feed the ego and agenda of a colleague (or a party) while truly representing the voters. A balance can be found, but there are few silver bullets and a strategy must be used.

What strategy can work against money from special interests, party leadership or a culture of corruption? Only one: Remember that voters elect officials to serve the public interest. Stay in contact with the constituents. Follow the principles you preached while campaigning. When the vampires surround the principled official, he can use one silver bullet: the press. Another silver bullet is public outcry. Another silver bullet is purity of heart.

This strategy may sound naïve and simplistic. But it is exactly what voters expect when they cast their ballots. Nobody ever got elected by swearing allegiance to party leadership or special interests. It is a fact that incumbents have a high likelihood of getting re-elected, barring a scandal or serious grass-roots opposition. If they just do the job we hired them for, we will continue to elect them. It is reasonable to expect honest, open and diligent representation right from the start!

Voters also have a few silver bullets: word of mouth, blogs, activist groups, and the news media. When we cast our votes for county commissioners, state representatives and senators, even for governor, think about who they have served. Think about who they will serve if they get your vote. Never forget they really do work for us, and we can fire them! Every member of the Georgia House of Representatives is up for re-election this year. Henry District 4 and District 5 commission seats are also on the ballot. Use your silver bullets.

Compromise to Corruption

2006-04-02T21:22:00.000-04:00

March 28, 2006

Compromise to Corruption

At the risk of repeating thoughts of everyone n the civilized world, I must add my two-cents about illegal aliens. The lack of backbone demonstrated in both the U.S. Congress and the Georgia Legislature is appalling.

Nationally we taxpayers are on the hook for over $13 billion annually, with the bulk of that cost landing in education provided to illegals. At the state and local level no school system is keeping its head above water and the influx of students is creating havoc everywhere. Already schools are replacing English-speaking teachers with “bilingual educators.” Adding illegals to the mix, paid for with our sales tax and property tax dollars, is not something I am willing to accept. This American taxpayer does not want his money going to educate anybody in this country illegally.
Senator Chip Rogers introduced SB529 but is has been diluted. Much was removed and too much was changed. Between Rep. Chapman and Sen. Rogers, Georgians expected meaningful legislation to deal with illegal aliens. After Gov. Perdue sliced and diced Chapman’s bill to introduce his own watered-down version, many of us were discouraged. Now we are wondering if anything positive will emerge.

What we are missing in the newly proposed legislation is accountability and enforcement. Now that Farm and Business lobbies have “spread the Bs” we are left with a virtual amnesty for the approximately 800,000 illegals in Georgia today. There is no employer responsibility that can be enforced. There is no employer accountability – and that is exactly what our legislators bought into. This American taxpayer does not want his money going to prop up any business that uses illegal alien workers.

To begin in July 2007 companies having contracts with the state will use a federal verification program, but only for new hires after that date. So-called enforcement for private employers will begin in 2008, but the wording is meaningless. Employers are asked to keep documentation for “contract workers” with no tax identification or social security card. Firstly there is no enforcement procedure for violations; and secondly there is no way to determine if the “law” is getting fulfilled. Not today. Not in 2008. Employers are asked to maintain immigration documentation for employees that are “claimed for the employer’s state income tax deductions.” How ludicrous! If they are not withholding taxes now, and the illegals are not documented (not today, and not in 2008) there is no reasonable expectation it will ever be done.
Business and Bucks is the name of the game. So long as our so-called legislators think they will share in the illegally gained profits, laws will be passed to protect the guilty. The reasoning for this unscrupulous action is cheap labor and higher profits. In the process wages for American blue-collar workers are reduced, the illegals are further denigrated and America loses! Politicians are caught between displeasing 80% of the legal citizens, and alienating a source of campaign funding. The workers are illegal, the business practices are illegal and the politicians are co-conspirators. Talk about a fascist monopoly! This American taxpayer is disgusted with unbridled corruption.

We wonder if any portion of Chapman’s or Rogers’s bills will survive the legislative process. So far we have an ambiguously defined amnesty program that removes any hope of controlling illegal immigration, protecting our borders or providing for the general welfare of legal taxpaying Americans. It all reminds me of the grand plans for ethics reform – which was similarly gutted in the legislature. How could we expect politicians to actually represent the will of the people? Certainly not if it could mean losing money and influence at the start of campaign season!

More on Eminent Domain

2006-04-02T21:20:00.000-04:00

March 27, 2006

Socialism, Mindspeak and Eminent Domain

Mike King is a member of the editorial board at the AJC. His weekly columns portray what we have come to expect from the liberal, nearly socialist viewpoint of the Al Jazeera Constitution.
Today he wrote about eminent domain as if FDR had just announced a work program in the 1930s. It will save us all. It is the answer to prevent sprawl. It is the basis for “the remarkable transformation of Smyrna.” The mere threat of eminent domain, writes King, is what saved Atlanta Road from remaining pockmarked with crumbling apartment complexes, half-vacant strip malls and blighted houses.

Proving he does not understand private property rights, King apparently believes all property belongs to the state – we simply pay quit rents (taxes) in order to use it on a temporary basis. He said of the Stockbridge case, “you'll find an otherwise routine use of eminent domain where the buyer and seller can't agree on the price and a judge ultimately decides what's fair.”
He acknowledges, “The law should prevent public development agencies from razing viable neighborhoods or commercial strips simply to make it cheaper for a private developer to move in; but it need not raise the bar for invoking eminent domain.” Yet he says that redevelopment of aging neighborhoods should be a high priority for state and local officials.

Ignorance is bliss. And the socialist mindset cannot comprehend and assimilate the reality of use of eminent domain coupled with private development. Stupidity is a better description since so much has been said and published and debated about the improper uses of eminent domain. Above all else the greed factor is completely ignored. Unscrupulous politicians in league with profit-hungry developers have become the standard fare in Georgia. And it is true stupidity to believe there is no personal profit motivation behind actions like we have seen in Stockbridge.

It is unfortunate that the only major daily newspaper in Atlanta would emulate the left-wing, socialist agenda of other rags like the New York Times. In another time the slogan “Covers Dixie Like The Dew” aptly described the scope and nature of news and editorial policy offered by the AJC. Although Marx is dead, the Berlin Wall removed and Communism proved to be a failed experiment, we cannot let our guard down. We must not allow pervasive socialist mind-speak (Progressive politics with a twist) to alter America’s sense of being American.

Eminent Domain

2006-03-25T07:05:00.000-05:00

Judge throws out Stockbridge condemnation

Henry County Superior Court Judge Arch McGarity has dismissed the condemnation of the property owned by Mark and Regina Meeks. Meeks said, "This is a courageous decision by Judge McGarity and we consider this to be a victory for private property rights for Georgians and we want to thank everybody that's supported us."

The City of Stockbridge will decide at their next city council meeting on April 10th whether to appeal the ruling.

"The City of Stockbridge has just been slapped down." - Neal Boortz

Cross posted on Peach Pundit. Read more at Henry Herald Online: Judge tosses out condemnation

STOCKBRIDGE CITY COUNCIL votes

In a three to one vote in favor of continuing to attempt to take the Meekses property.
Read More

CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE resorts to race-baiting cowardice

In a letter to Henry County's legislative delegation, Stockbridge City Attorney Buddy Welch and the City of Stockbridge said that House Bill 1555 was "racially motivated." He is saying this despite the fact that State Rep. Howard Mosby (there is a picture of Mosby at that link) is black. The Henry NAACP chairman Rev. Dan Edwards supports the legislation. He agrees that Stockbridge should have voting districts to insure true representation for all people. The whole race-baiting position of Ted Strickland, Rudy Kelly and the council is absurd. Read all about it - Click Here

The letter, provided to the Daily Herald by Rep. Steve Davis, because the City refused to share it, charges the reapportionment move is “racially motivated” because none of the proposed districts contain a majority of African American voters.

Rep. Davis provided a clear rebuttal to the "horrible inaccurate accusation."

Jason Pye, chairman of the Henry County Libertarian Party adds his opinion:

"Now they are using race baiting, lies and character assassination because they know the citizens of the State of Georgia and any regular Joe Sixpack with any amount of common sense is against them. " READ MORE

Douglas Makes Us Proud

2006-03-17T05:59:00.000-05:00

"We cannot, we must not allow this resolution to stand unchallenged. We have a stellar track record of supporting out troops and veterans. Let's not throw that away."

Sen. John Douglas' speech on Fonda resolution
AJC Published on: 03/16/06

Here is the transcript of Sen. John Douglas' (R- Covington) speech on the Jane Fonda resolution:

Yesterday this Senate passed Senate Resolution 1189, as it would any other privilege resolution, without fanfare or debate. But as the gavel came down and I heard the name of Jane Fonda, I immediately knew that we had made a terrible mistake that stained the honor, not only of this Senate, but of this state. I can think of no living American who is less worthy of this honor than Jane Fonda. She is as guilty of treason as Benedict Arnold and Tokyo Rose. She betrayed her country in wartime. She worked for our defeat. She visited American POWs, not to help them, but as the guest of the enemy. She betrayed them by not reporting back to our own government what she had seen. She was photographed in enemy anti-aircraft guns aiming at our own pilots, wearing parts of the enemy uniform. In 1969 at the University of Michigan she said "We should get down on our knees and pray that this country will one day become communist." In 1972 she spoke on Radio Hanoi where she called our soldiers "war criminals" and said that we are fighting in an unlawful war. In 1973, of returning prisoners of war, she called them liars after they said they were mistreated, starved, beaten and brainwashed.

Ladies and gentlemen of the Senate, honoring Jane Fonda, no matter how much good work she might be doing now, would be the equivalent of this Senate spitting on every person who has ever worn the uniform of this country. Let's honor every Georgian who answered the call of our nation to serve in Vietnam and every other war, and never ever forget those who did not return. We cannot, we must not allow this resolution to stand unchallenged. We have a stellar track record of supporting our troops and veterans. Let's not throw that away. I ask that the Senate vote yes to reconsider.

Lawmaker pulls resolution honoring Fonda
By SONJI JACOBS
The Atlanta Journal-ConstitutionPublished on: 03/16/06

The Georgia State Senate voted down a resolution that would honor actress Jane Fonda for her charitable and public service works Thursday.

State Sen. Steen Miles (D-Decatur) created a stir when she introduced a resolution to honor Fonda on Wednesday. The measure passed -- but then the Senate decided to rethink its actions after one lawmaker voiced his strong objection.

Miles tried to dial down the controversy Thursday by abandoning her effort, but the Senate Republican majority forced a last-minute vote on the measure.

"I am deeply sorry that a simple, routine resolution honoring the tireless efforts of Ms. Jane Fonda to prevent teen pregnancies in our state would cause such a firestorm," Miles said.
A sometimes emotional Miles explained that Jane Fonda did not ask for the honorary resolution, which applauded Fonda for her work with women and girls, particularly her role as founder and chairwoman of the Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention.

"I offered it freely and I stand by it without equivocation," Miles said. "Having received however, a call from her office -- she is out of the country -- for the sake of unity for the country that she loves, she has respectfully asked that I withdraw this resolution."

Senate Resolution 1189 failed 38 to 1. Sen. Emanuel Jones (D-Ellenwood) cast the only "yes" vote.

The resolution is one of hundreds usually approved each year by the General Assembly. Such commemorative and honorary measures typically are non-controversial and are not approved by a vote. Instead, they pass through a very quick legislative procedure known as a "unanimous consent."

Fonda's honorary resolution seemed to sail through the Senate Wednesday -- until Sen. John Douglas (R-Covington), a retired Army major and chairman of the Senate Veterans and Military Affairs Committee, voiced his personal objection. Miles gave a fiery speech defending Fonda and the resolution, an action which then prompted Douglas to ask the Senate to reconsider its approval.

On Thursday, Douglas gave a passionate speech Thursday in which he cited a long list of Fonda's anti-Vietnam war efforts during the late 1960s and 1970s.

Fonda, a two-time Academy Award winning-actress, often engaged in anti-war activities during the Vietnam War. In her most infamous action, she posed on a North Vietnamese anti-aircraft gun -- a move that angers many veterans to this day. Fonda has said that she regretted the gesture, but she continues to speak out regularly on controversial political and social issues.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the Senate, honoring Jane Fonda, no matter how much good work she might be doing now, would be the equivalent of this Senate spitting on every person who has ever worn the uniform of this country," Douglas said. "We cannot, we must not allow this resolution to stand unchallenged. We have a stellar track record of supporting out troops and veterans. Let's not throw that away."

Several lawmakers gave Douglas a standing ovation.

========
Read More about public reaction to Sen. John Douglas and the Fonda Resolution

Will HB1033 die in committee?

2006-03-07T20:55:00.000-05:00

Hello all,

At a local blog site, Mary Todd wrote, “Representative Lunsford, Representative Davis and Senator Douglas have listened to the Henry County citizens and support a referendum on the proposed commuter rail line.” That was when Lunsford introduced HB 1033 and appeared to truly represent taxpayers.

But wait….
(1) Lunsford introduced HB 1033 with the stated intention of allowing taxpayers a referendum on whether to tax ourselves.
(2) Lunsford toned down the anti-rail rhetoric. Now he says he isn't opposed to commuter trains; he simply wants to find better ways to fund operations.
(3) HB 1033 legislation appears to be going nowhere. It was sent into the Transportation sub-committee weeks ago and has not resurfaced.
(4) Lunsford is the chairman of the Henry County legislative delegation, and Senior Hawk in the Republican-led House.

WHY HAS Rep. Lunsford allowed this taxpayer-friendly legislation to die on the vine?

Monday, March 13th is Crossover Day at the General Assembly. Any bill that has not been passed to the other chamber (House to Senate, or Senate to House) will not be passed after March 13th.

By allowing HB 1033 to remain dormant in sub-committee, Rep. Lunsford is killing it.

Politics at its worst! Rep. Lunsford stirred the pot. He looked good while he openly defended taxpayers. Now what?

Please send email to Rep. Lunsford at john.lunsford@house.ga.gov, or call him at 404.656.7573 (Capitol) or 770.914.6796 (Home). Ask him about his intentions. Ask him what we are supposed to think now.

I am very interested in hearing any responses you get. Stay in touch with me at hc.citizen@yahoo.com

Thank you for caring!

Crotts: Deficit of Integrity

2006-03-04T10:01:00.000-05:00

A Citizen's Story

Back in the day.... Dateline Henry County, 2002... There was a huge push to remove the Fourth District and Fifth District Henry commissioners from office. A small group of citizens agreed that both were guilty of misuse of office, conflict of interest and therefore dishonesty.

The reason for this long story is to point out the role Crotts played. Speaking to concerned citizens he was open and interested. Speaking to the governor, his words were like poison.

A highly in-depth research project was launched cataloging every vote, every campaign contribution, every zoning issue and every social/political/financial aspect that could be known. A book of about 200 pages was presented to every news media outlet, Gov. Barnes, the Attorney General, the Georgia Ethics Commission -- and the Henry Legislative Delegation. Crotts was the delegation chair at that time. Crotts was specifically given a copy of the research. Crotts told the Complaint's author that he would lend his support to pursue proven, documented conflicts of interest. He supported the principles of the Ethics in Government Act.

The documents outlined clear conflicts of interest in voting and interlocking (sometimes shielded) financial relationships. Yet neither commissioner had "failed to disclose" any contributions that could be proven. That was the key fact that tied the Ethics Commission's hands.

All the while, Ethics Commission Executive Secretary Teddy Lee was counseling and explaining our state's ethics laws to the Complaint's author. Lee said that it was among the best researched and comprehensive cases he had ever read. BUT, state law specifically says "Ought" and "Should" while providing no penalties for violation of any clause of the Ethics in Government Act. (Today we still see the legislature gutting any meaningful reform to ethics legislation) The Complaint became an officially dead issue at the Ethics Commission.

Several local developers allegedly violated state law in filing zoning applications stating "they made no contributions to any official who would influence the outcome of the application." Zoning applications clearly ask the question, and state the possible penalties. District Attorney Tommy Floyd's staff investigated the allegations and found he could excuse all but two of those accused. One got off scott-free, the other was tried and given a $250 fine. (Note that such a misdemeanor calls for $1000 fine and/or one year in the pokey!) Tommy Floyd told the complainant that he believed "the point had been made."

The Complainant asked for the governor's office to investigate the allegations, or request the Attorney General to investigate. A well-known Henry citizen with ties and access to Gov. Barnes' office was told, by a staff attorney, about a meeting Crotts had with the governor. Crotts reportedly told Barnes that the complaint was baseless and supported only by a fringe group. The Complainant could not get a phone call returned from, or an appointment with the governor or his staff.

No small coincidence. Some of the individuals and businesses named in the Complaint were also listed as Crotts' top campaign contributors in 2003!

The research used in the Ethics Complaint was used locally. Its major findings were published in The Henry Herald, posted at websites and distributed in email. Both the 4th and 5th district commissioners were voted out of office, being replaced with Gerry Adams and Lee Holman.

Say NO To Crotts

2006-03-04T09:09:00.000-05:00

The following links provide information about former state senator Mike Crotts. To say the least, he is not a good choice for the Georgia Senate.

A Citizen's Story

At Jason Pye.com
Interesting (Crotts v. Douglas)
Chances Slim & None
Crotts & Earl Paulk sex scandal
More on Crotts (Defining Arrogance)

At Peach Pundit
Ranking Senate Republicans "say it all"
Uprooted and moved to the Covington
Attention Mike Crotts
Shunned by Republican Establishment
Bishop Paulk and Mike Crotts

At Federal Elections Commission
Mike Crotts failed to notify the FEC

Campaign Contributors -- For Henry Countians this tells the story!
There is NO DOUBT about exactly WHO Crotts will represent in the Senate

* Adams, Douglas R. Mr. (Douglas Adams Realty/Realtor), (Zip code: 30281) $1000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 09/30/03
* Evans, J. P. Mr. (BEC Properties & Holdings LLC/Owner), (Zip code: 30281) $1000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 09/30/03
* Hudgins, Blake Mr. (Hudgins Construction/Superintendent), (Zip code: 30281) $2000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 08/26/03
* Potts, Frank W. Mr. (Potts Construction/Developer), (Zip code: 30281) $2000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 09/08/03
* Seiler, Keith Mr. (Seiler & Associates/Owner), (Zip code: 30281) $500 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 09/30/03
* Ward, M. Neal Mr. (MNW Construction Inc./President), (Zip code: 30281) $1000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 08/29/03
* Webb, John Mr. (Smith Welch LLC/Attorney), (Zip code: 30281) $500 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 08/29/03
* Evans, J. P. Mr. (BEC Properties & Holdings LLC/Owner), (Zip code: 30281) $200 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 03/30/04
* Henry, Don F Mr. (DFH Development/Home Builder), (Zip code: 30281) $1000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 05/13/04
* Hickman, Brian V Mr. (H & W Properties/Real Estate Invest), (Zip code: 30281) $1000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 05/07/04
* Bunn, Carey Mr. (Countryside Land & Homes Inc./Owner), (Zip code: 30248) $1000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 08/26/03
* Smith, Al J. Mr. (Self/Engineer), (Zip code: 30248) $250 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 08/26/03
* Bunn, Carey Mr. (Countryside Land & Homes Inc./Owner), (Zip code: 30248) $500 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 01/23/04
* Ward, Charles L. Mr. (REL Properties Inc./Real Estate Dev), (Zip code: 30030) $1000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 08/29/03
* Jones, Fran Ms. (Ray Jones Inc./Building Contractor), (Zip code: 30013) $2000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 12/15/03
* Lockman, Gary Mr. (Lockman & Associates/Real Estate Br), (Zip code: 30094) $1000 to MIKE CROTTS FOR CONGRESS INC on 05/07/04

GARPFebruary

2006-02-27T21:10:00.000-05:00

Georgia Association of Railroad Passengers March 2006 newsletter
www.trainweb.org/garp
February 2006

WELCOME TO ATLANTA. As this newsletter is being distributed, passenger train advocates from across the Southeast are converging on Georgia for this year's Region V National Association of Railroad Passengers Conference, hosted by GARP. The Peach State Xpress would like to take this opportunity to welcome our guests to Atlanta, a city of transportation contradictions. Atlanta hosts the nation's busiest airport, but sees only one intercity passenger train a day in each direction. Its expressways are bursting at the seams, but decision-makers have been slow to recognize the transit potential offered by the multiple railroad lines radiating from the city. And even though Atlanta built one of the nation's first "new generation" heavy rail systems, that early promise has been tarnished by underfunding and underexpansion. Nevertheless, Atlanta remains a place of exciting possibilities, including plans for returning streetcars to Peachtree Street and for an innovative park-and-transit loop around the central city, and GARP is happy to be hosting this year's Region V conference.

WAITING FOR THE TRAIN. In late 2003, when the Georgia Department of Transportation announced plans for commuter rail service between Atlanta and Lovejoy, there were hopes the trains would be rolling this year. Unfortunately, progress has come in fits and starts. There's still no final agreement between the DOT and the Norfolk Southern railroad, which owns the tracks. And while NS CEO Charles "Wick" Moorman recently told Atlanta Journal-Constitution columnist Maria Saporta that his railroad is open to commuter train service, there's still no consensus on funding track capacity improvements to make that happen. The slow pace of progress on Atlanta-Lovejoy service has not, however, dampened enthusiasm for commuter rail on another potential corridor, Atlanta-Athens. CSX railroad officials are conducting a capacity study, and E. H. Culpepper of the Georgia Rail Passenger Authority recently discussed prospects for the Atlanta-Athens service with the Lilburn City Council. Meanwhile, Oconee County Chamber of Commerce President Charles Grimes told the Athens Banner-Herald that commuter rail would "bring in a lot of high-tech industry" and "be a plus for the whole area."

SHOW ME THE MONEY. While commuter rail has faced some roadblock attempts in the Georgia General Assembly, there is a hopeful sign to report this month: a piece of "poison pill" legislation appears to be going nowhere. A bill that would require individual counties and cities to hold special elections before funding commuter trains -- sent to a subcommittee shortly after it was introduced -- has not resurfaced, and now its principle sponsor is toning down the anti-rail rhetoric. Rep. John Lunsford (R-McDonough) says he isn't opposed to commuter trains; he simply wants to find better ways to fund operations. He told the Henry Herald he's encouraged that alternate funding mechanisms now are being discussed, and on that point, at least, the Peach State XPress is inclined to agree. The notion that regional commuter rail operations can be funded by a patchwork of individual counties and cities has always been a dubious assumption. Everywhere else across the country, commuter rail is funded on a state and regional basis. That's the way it ought to work in Georgia, too.

T.P.B. OR D.O.A? Just days after the Atlanta Regional Commission gave final approval to a plan creating an Atlanta-area Transit Planning Board, the new TPB held its first meeting on Feb. 16. The 18 board members include nine county commissioners, plus representatives from the City of Atlanta, the Atlanta Regional Commission, the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority, the Georgia Department of Transportation, and the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. The TPB is supposed to coordinate the Atlanta region's transit infrastructure and consider sources of funding, but before it does any of that, the first task may be educating some board members. One of them, Henry County Commissioner Jason Harber, echoed the ill-informed sentiments that have hobbled Atlanta-area transit for decades, declaring he would only support transit projects that "do not operate at a loss," meaning, presumably, transit projects that do not require government funding. Of course, all transportation (including roads) requires government funding, and if there's no government help, there's no transit, and by extension, no need for a Transit Planning Board.

NO WAY BUT THE HIGHWAY? Commissioner Harber also echoed another time-worn anti-transit platitude, saying he will support only those transit projects that "reduce traffic on the interstate." Of course, transit does reduce traffic on the interstate, but the notion that transit should be evaluated solely in terms of its effect on people who don't use it (drivers) is another piece of nonsense promoted by the Road Warriors, the stop-transit-at-any-cost ideologues who think there's no way but the highway. Unfortunately, this misguided mindset was reflected in official policy last month, when the Atlanta Regional Commission endorsed the recommendations of Gov. Sonny Perdue's Congestion Mitigation Task Force. The Task Force -- which of course included no transit riders -- established a formula for funding transportation projects that bases 70% of the decision on road congestion mitigation, reducing the consideration given to economic development, safety, environmental impact and other quality-of-life issues. There were predictions the new formula could prompt the ARC to drop the Atlanta-Lovejoy commuter train line from its "recommended" list. And in an Atlanta Journal-Constitution op-ed article, Prof. Brian Stone of Georgia Tech's City and Regional Planning Program wrote that the "mitigation" formula is in fact traffic-inducing, and warned that if it is followed, "Traffic congestion around the region is likely to get progressively worse." The Road Warriors were quick to defend the "mitigation" formula. Benita Dodd of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation assailed "social engineers" who "foist" transit "on communities that have chosen the freedom of automobiles," ignoring the obvious fact that when automobiles are the only option, driving is not a free choice. Dodd went on to declare commuter rail "elitist." That was right before she endorsed a proposal that really is elitist: reserving special toll lanes for well-heeled motorists who want to bypass the middle class riff-raff in the regular lanes.

FEWER TRAINS MAKE FEWER PASSENGERS. The numbers are in, and they're not surprising: last year's service reduction on Amtrak's New York-Savannah-Miami line had a negative impact on Georgia patronage. Amtrak pruned the New York-Miami Palmetto back to New York-Savannah, a move that reduced Savannah-Miami service from three round trips per day to two round trips per day. As a result, passenger counts fell at the two Georgia stations along that route: Savannah boardings and alightings (people getting off) fell from 42,603 in 2004 to 39,332 in 2005, while Jesup's numbers fell from 6,238 in 2004 to 6,190 last year. Meanwhile on the Crescent route, patronage was up: Atlanta had 87,811 boardings and alightings during fiscal 2005, up from 86,916 the previous year; Gainesville recorded 4,721 boardings and alightings versus 4,425 the previous year, and Toccoa climbed to 2,994 from 2004's 2,783. Unfortunately, the Crescent route gains were not big enough to offset the losses in Savannah and Jesup, so in a year when Amtrak enjoyed record ridership nationwide, its Georgia state passenger totals fell from 142,965 in 2004 to 141,048 passengers in 2005. Some other numbers: Amtrak spent more than $12.6 million on goods and services in Georgia last year, up sharply from $8.4 million the previous year. Amtrak employed 83 Georgia residents last year, paying wages totaling $4.3 million.

ANOTHER SHUTDOWN BUDGET. Despite President Bush's State of the Union address vowing to fight America's addiction to imported oil, the President's tactics don't seem to include energy-efficient intercity passenger rail. Once again this year, the Bush Administration has released a budget plan that would shut down Amtrak as we know it. As predicted in last month's Peach State XPress, the President recommended $900 million in federal funding for Amtrak in fiscal 2007, an improvement over his zero-funding recommendation for 2006, but a 30% cut from this year's congressionally approved funding level of $1.3 billion. This comes despite a new Harris Poll showing that Americans put trains at the top of the list, when asked to rank transportation modes they would like to see have "an increasing share of passenger transportation." And despite the Administration's insistence that individual states should take over the responsibility for funding Amtrak operations, 68% of the people who responded to the Harris survey said the federal government -- not the states -- "should be mainly responsible for retaining and improving the transportation system in the nation as a whole." 27 House Republicans recently signed a letter warning that President Bush's funding proposal would leave Amtrak "incapable of providing effective service for its 25 million annual passengers." Sadly, the letter did not include even one single signature from Georgia. In a statement supporting the proposed Amtrak funding cut, Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta suggested that the cut would force Amtrak to continue "fundamental reforms" that will "reduce Amtrak's need for federal subsidies." The nature of these reforms? The Bush Administration says Amtrak should be "moving aggressively in a number of areas, including phasing out costly overnight trains." For the record, three of the four Amtrak trains serving Georgia are overnight trains. In his statement, Mineta applauded a provision inserted in the 2006 Amtrak funding bill that effectively requires Amtrak to cut spending on sleeping car service and food service, both of which are essential to overnight train operations. This new law will have a very real impact on Amtrak trains serving Georgia beginning next month. Amtrak is replacing most of its traditional dining car service system-wide with what it calls "simplified diner service" using a three-person staff serving pre-cooked meals reheated in convection ovens. Four trains -- the Texas Eagle, the City of New Orleans, the Capitol Limited and the Sunset Limited -- have already been converted. The first Georgia train to be converted -- the New York-Miami Silver Star -- is to be switched over April 15. The New York-Atlanta-New Orleans Crescent is to make the transition May 3, and the New York-Miami Silver Meteor will follow on May 24. All of Amtrak's overnight trains except the Auto Train and the Empire Builder are to be converted by June 1.

STOLEN SILVER. Dozens of Amtrak cars failed a snap inspection in New York's Sunnyside Yard early last month, resulting in an equipment shortage that forced temporary New York-Savannah-Miami service cutbacks. The Silver Meteor was canceled for five days, leaving only the Silver Star on the route until repairs were completed. Ironically, Amtrak's Palmetto, on the New York-Savannah portion of the route, was only running three days a week at the time, not because of the equipment shortage, but because of CSX track repair work.

AS FAR AS IT GOES. Half a year after Hurricane Katrina devastated the CSX railroad line between Louisiana and Florida, Amtrak's Sunset Limited continues to run only from Los Angeles to New Orleans, and there's still no word on when the Sunset will resume its full run on the CSX through to Orlando. CSX resumed freight operations on the Louisiana-Florida route last month, ending detours that had congested Norfolk Southern's New Orleans-Atlanta line, used by Amtrak's Crescent. That was good news for Crescent passengers, who had been enduring chronic delays since September, but now there's a new issue: Norfolk Southern will be closing the Atlanta-New Orleans line periodically through mid-April to do trackwork. As a result, there will be no Crescent service between Atlanta and New Orleans March 6-9, March 13-16, March 20-23, March 27-30, April 3-6 and April 10-12. The Crescent will continue to provide daily service between Atlanta and New York.

THE INTERNATIONAL. The Canadian passenger rail advocacy group, Transport 2000, is calling on Canada's newly elected Conservative government to revive train service to Regina and other neglected parts of western Canada... Police say they've busted a counterfeiting ring that produced more than five million bogus Toronto transit tokens... France's Alstom Engineering is working on a new generation of high-speed passenger trains capable of speeds up to 218 mph... Israeli officials hope to have high-speed trains running between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv by 2010... Venezuela is opening the first section of a new national railroad expected to carry up to 86,000 passengers a day.

NATIONAL LIMITED. President Bush has re-nominated Floyd Hall and Enrique Sosa to the Amtrak Board of Directors; they're already serving under recess appointments granted after the Senate refused to confirm their initial nominations... Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-Tenn.) has named Paul Weyrich, a noted conservative and passenger rail supporter, to the National Surface Transportation Policy and Revenue Study Commission... The American Public Transit Association is expressing disappointment in President Bush's transit funding proposal for fiscal 2007, saying it's $100 million below the levels approved the SAFETEA legislation Congress passed last summer... An equipment shortage in Chicago forced Amtrak to run one Lake Shore Limited round-trip with Superliner equipment between Chicago and Albany, NY; since the double-deckers can't fit into New York City's Pennsylvania Station, a separate train ferried passengers between Albany and NYP... Illinois legislators have introduced a bill that, if passed, would fund additional service on Amtrak's Chicago-St. Louis, Chicago-Carbondale and Chicago-Quincy routes... New Hampshire legislators have rejected legislation to help fund three train stations along Amtrak's Boston-Portland, Maine "Downeaster" route... Amtrak and the Long Island Rail Road have agreed to an as yet unfunded plan that would allow the LIRR to tunnel under Amtrak's Sunnyside Yard for a new route into New York's Grand Central Station... A series of public hearings were held in Wisconsin last month, to discuss plans for commuter train service between Milwaukee and Kenosha.... Plans to expand Boston-area commuter train service beyond Providence, R.I. will take a step forward this spring, when station construction begins at Warwick and North Kingston, south of Providence... Minnesota's Metro Transit, with its new "Hiawatha" light rail line, enjoyed a 7% patronage increase last year despite a 25-cent fare increase... New Jersey Transit tested a new device to screen riders for explosives... Bowing to legislative pressure, Maryland's MARC transit agency has withdrawn plans to close four stations in the Baltimore area... Two light rail stations in San Jose, Calif. will be renovated this summer, with raised platforms to help disabled riders board... A committee in Minot, S.D. is raising money to restore that city's Amtrak depot to its 1903 appearance... A Wall Street ratings firm has downgraded the troubled Las Vegas monorail system to "junk bond" status... Seven people celebrating the Pittsburgh Steelers' Super Bowl victory were trapped on Pittsburgh's Monongahela Incline railway for about two hours, after a computer glitch caused their car to stop before it reached the station at the bottom of the incline... Amtrak has launched a Spanish-language version of its web site, espanol.amtrak.com.

THE GEORGIAN. MARTA veteran Richard McCrillis will serve as interim general manager until the Atlanta transit agency appoints a permanent replacement for Nathaniel Ford, who resigned late last year to take another job... Higher sales tax revenues and rising ridership helped MARTA end the first half of its current fiscal year in the black, but officials say that without new funding sources, the long-term outlook remains grim... MARTA plans to spend $2.5 million on a sweeping review of its operations.

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO GARP. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution printed a letter from GARP's Dick Hodges warning against the region's "almost total reliance on highway building," and expressing disappointment that other options including MARTA expansion and commuter rail "seem to be out of sight and out of mind for many of Georgia's decision-makers"... Just to show there’s a life beyond passenger rail, GARP Director Emeritus Ross Goddard was recently presented with the prestigious Silver Beaver award by the Boy Scouts, recognizing his nearly 30 years of service to that organization...Thanks to Dick Hodges and Don Nuckolls of Eatonton for renewing their memberships at the contributing level... Thanks to former GARP President Tim Wolfe for renewing his membership at the contributing level, and for his generous extra donation... 2006 membership renewals are now overdue; if you haven't renewed yet, please send your check today to GARP, Inc. at PO Box 851, Decatur, GA 30031 today: $20 for regular membership, $30 for family memberships and $10 for student and senior memberships.

NEXT MEETING: Saturday, March 11, 10 AM
PLACE: Towne Square Condominiums Club Room, 225 East Ponce De Leon Avenue, Downtown Decatur, between Church St. and North Candler St., 1/2 block from the Decatur MARTA station. Building entrance is beside the Subway shop

PARKING: Parking available on the streets and elsewhere. If you park in a metered place, feed the meter - the City says they are checked on Saturday. Parking in the Towne Square building parking deck IS NOT FREE - driveway is beside the Natural Body Spa

COST: Kindly contribute $ 1 toward the cost of refreshments
Copyright © 2006 Georgia Association of Railroad Passengers, Inc.

Decency in Government

2006-02-26T09:21:00.000-05:00

Health, safety and welfare are legitimate concerns of government. That means hospitals, police & fire services, and water & sewer systems. We cannot complain too much about taxes raised to fund these common necessities. It is expansion of the role of government that riles people and causes friction. Factions are defined by those with needs and those with wants.

Private groups strive to make government more than it should be. Trade associations like Chamber of Commerce and Council for Quality Growth turn into lobbyists. Committees are formed to explore and influence every aspect of our lives. And their agendas cannot be funded without tapping our tax coffers. It is good that private citizens are politically active. Unfortunately it is politicians who usually benefit from the voting power or money provided from these groups. By virtue of selling influence, creating laws and placating special interest groups, politicians expand government and uses of tax revenues to maintain power and position.

Governing associations like the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and Association of County Commissioners (ACCG) wield influence. The ARC Board is composed of elected officials and appointed private citizens. ARC’s objective is to plan the distribution of population, land development and land use. It is the mission of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia to enhance the role… of county government. By definition their goal is expansion of government, including social and economic engineering.

Senator Zell Miller served Georgia as Lieutenant Governor 1975-1991, Governor 1990-1998 and U.S. Senator 2000-2004. In his book, “A Deficit of Decency,” Miller says an illness has besieged our nation, a veritable moral scurvy." And, "without responsibility, freedom and liberty break down into something ugly, selfish and, unfortunately all too familiar, a license to steal. And, "since maintaining a career in politics is more important than making good laws, most of the laws of the land are made not by elected representatives of the people but by unelected, unaccountable legislators."

Georgian’s legislature is besieged by special interests with their own agendas for issues like eminent domain, illegal immigration, and education. Many private citizens are involved and remain in contact with state legislators. But they cannot provide the influence and clout so many elected officials crave. We can be thankful for legislators who truly fight to make good laws. The ones who cannot be bought-off or threatened for one reason: they were elected to serve, not to swerve.

Some local officials don’t care about serving the best interests of their constituents. We have a commission chairman who waffles and misrepresents facts; and district commissioners who simply follow the agendas of special interests. Anything goes for ambition, to stay in office or to finance a campaign.

Citizens must provide strength and moral conviction. Citizens must require decency from those we elect. If we fail to defend our civil liberties, we give unscrupulous politicians a license to steal.

Larry Stanley
McDonough, GA
February 26, 2006

Harper Has Forked Tongue

2006-02-23T18:29:00.000-05:00

It's all about ACTIONS, not WORDS

Jason wants it both ways, which explains why he speaks from both sides of his mouth.
* He refused to give our legislators a Yes/No answer about the rail.
* He voted to deny taxpayers a vote on it.
* He is determined to appease his supporters at the Chamber and Growth Council.

Yet he calls for self-supporting transit when talking to the new regional Transit Planning Board.

It is fur shure -- Jason does not get it. We know he is a RINO and floats on the wind. He cannot be trusted to ACT on our behalf.

Read Jason Pye's assessment of Harper at "They Actually Admit It"
[Harper] admits to what Steve Davis, John Douglas, Larry Stanley, BJ Mathis and I have been saying for the last year.

http://www.jasonpye.com/blog/2006/02/they_actually_admit_it.html#trackback

Ignoring the Truth

2006-02-21T20:00:00.000-05:00

Support a Rail Referendum
Our Chamber of Commerce and others like Harper and Griffin cannot sell the commuter rail on its merits. To advance their argument they must misrepresent or simply ignore the truth.

Politics is the competition for scarce resources. In the case of a proposed commuter rail, the resource is money. It is your money and mine; taxpayer money. Recently Mr. Mike Griffin extolled the virtues of rail over highways and cars. His only statement about funding the proposal was, “[HB 1033] is not about the community’s right to tax itself.” Our local competition for Other People’s Money appears to include redefining what a referendum actually is. The only way to ethically decide how or when to enter a 50-year tax subsidy for private industry is to have taxpayers vote on it.

Mr. Griffin also said that elected representatives should not pass the buck [to voters]. Every class in public administration, book and article I have experienced clearly defines representative government. A representative must, without fail, seek advice and consent of the voting public. (Remember “Of the people, by the people, for the people?) Otherwise we relinquish our personal and civic responsibilities.

Commissioners Harper, Adams and Holder voted to kill a referendum on whether voters could approve financing this 50-year multi-million dollar tax subsidy. They followed a meaningless rationale that “Henry County does not have a dog in this race.” The tie vote killed official support for House Bill 1033, which would guarantee a vote. Taxpayers were betrayed.

At the same time the Henry Chamber of Commerce announced support for the Lovejoy rail line, Henry chairman Jason Harper joined Clayton chairman Eldrin Bell in support for it. Harper put “Henry’s Dog” in the race against a groundswell of opposition. Maintaining Henry’s Dog will cost $5 million up-front and about $540,000 annually. This dog does bite!

It is not the job of taxpayers to subsidize private industry. It is not the job of elected officials to use our money to appease their benefactors. When bonds are issued, citizens vote. When a SPLOST is proposed, citizens vote. When general funds are used we expect the highest benefit for every dollar. A local governing authority has great latitude, but there are ethical limits to what officials can do. Exceeding or abusing those limits undermines public faith, and gives us bad policy decisions.

Our Chamber of Commerce and others like Harper and Griffin cannot sell the commuter rail on its merits. That is why they oppose a vote. They cannot address old rail cars that do not meet Americans With Disabilities requirements. Or, our paying $8 million for track upgrades. Or that that Norfolk Southern has no risk, but taxpayers must guarantee operating costs. Or that a small group of developers and realtors will reap profits at taxpayer expense. To advance their argument they must misrepresent or simply ignore the truth.

Senator Douglas said of the recent hearing on House Bill 1033, “Both sides did state their views and I believe the anti commuter rail forces were the clear winners. The other side could never answer the question of why they didn't want to hear from the taxpayers.”

Taxpayers should be the only special interest. For more information, visit http://www.jasonpye.com/.

Larry Stanley
McDonough, GA
February 21, 2006

ACCG and the Rail

2006-02-14T20:28:00.000-05:00

Posted at JasonPye.com --

The Association County Commissioners of Georgia has some interesting things to say about the proposed commuter rail. According to ACCG the rail...

"In a nutshell, the Georgia Rail Passenger Authority is going to get a passenger train into which the state puts federal funds and such state funds as it can find. All of the decisions will be made by the state albeit with consultation with the local community, and any operating deficits become the responsibility of county or counties involved. As important as alternative transportion are, this specific approach and contract does not seem to be in the best interest of county property taxpayers in Clayton, Henry and Spalding Counties."

Henry County is a member of ACCG. I wonder if Jason Harper has seen this report...

Hearing on House Bill 1033

2006-02-14T17:34:00.000-05:00

Hearing on House Bill 1033 - Be sure your voice is heard!

There will be a hearing on House Bill 1033 on Friday, Feb. 17th at 9:30am at the Capitol.

This Bill is very important to every taxpayer in Henry County! It was introduced by Rep. John Lunsford to insure there is a referendum allowing us to vote on financing for a commuter rail.

As it stands now the Chambers of Commerce in Henry and Clayton are doing everything possible to kill the Bill. They do not want us to vote! Three members of Henry’s board of commissioners (Harper, Adams and Holder) voted last week to kill a resolution in support of the Bill.

Taxpayers have the attention of Rep. Lunsford, Rep. Steve Davis and Sen. John Douglas. Also, commissioners Mathis, Stamey and Holman support a vote.

IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND the hearing on Friday, PLEASE contact the members of the legislature and specifically Rep. Lunsford, Rep. Davis and Sen. Douglas. Tell them We Want To Vote!

Email addresses:

Honorable Vance Smith, Jr., Chairman
Transportation Committee
vance.smith@house.ga.gov

john.yates@house.ga.gov
repmikebarnes@aol.com
howard.mosby@house.ga.gov
stan.watson@house.ga.gov
emanuel.jones@senate.ga.gov
jfdouglas@aol.com
sdavis.gateway@charter.net
john.lunsford@house.ga.gov
grichardson@legis.state.ga.us
bfleming@legis.state.ga.us
doug@dougholt.org
tom.mccall@house.ga.gov
info@sheilajones.org

Developer's Dream

2006-02-12T20:38:00.000-05:00

NO Truth in Advertising!

Chamber of Commerce executive director Kay Pippin addressed the South Metro Development Outlook Conference Jan. 31 at the Georgia International Convention Center in College Park. The story was printed by the Henry Neighbor Newspaper on February 8.

Ms. Pippin said Henry County has been a developer's dream since early in 1990s, "and that dream has manifested itself into the county being the second fastest growing county in Georgia and the 13th in the nation."

Henry has more than tripled in population as it enters 2006, growing from 59,000 in 1990 to 170,000. In housing starts, Henry continues to be among the nation's leaders and is now the fourth fastest county in this area.

"Henry offers young families what they want and need," Ms. Pippin emphasized. "Our schools have come from being good to being great and we have much to brag about regarding our schools and over students."

Here are some facts and opinions that Ms. Pippin DID NOT share with the Developer’s Conference:

For sure, Henry County is a developers dream. The Chamber of Commerce, hugely supported by county commission chair Jason Harper, will bear any burden and foist any tax to promote increasing so-called economic growth.

Our schools are heavily burdened by the increase in students. With over 35,000 students the system is expected to grow by at least 8% in 2006-07. All but four schools will have trailers on their campuses. We are creating separate but equal trailer communities, social and ethnic factions and lost sense of personal identity. Even the best intentioned teachers and counselors cannot overcome the overwhelming number of students.

Michael Turner, director of public safety for the Henry County Fire Department said, "Our population is rising between 5.7 and 6.2 percent, while the calls have been between 9.7 and 10 percent. We have nine ambulances and they're taxed."

Bryan Harris, a contract public relations officer for the Henry County Water and Sewerage Authority (HCWSA) said it provided water to about 19,000 residents and businesses in 1995 but that number has topped 50,000. The HCWSA staff and ARCADIS, a group of consulting engineers, have joined forces to develop an improvement program for the HCWSA.

Henry County provides a great place to work – in retail and fast food. The large number of jobs Ms. Pippin brags about provide only minimum wage. But there are lots of them thanks to the strip malls and fast food restaurants. And development, the realm of Henry’s power brokers, provides only about 2,600 jobs in the county.

There is no truthful way for Pippin or Harper to truthfully tout real economic growth as the results of their efforts. Quality of life is officially defined as “More is better:” More people, more congestion, more crowded schools, more stress on roads, more impact to police and fire services, and more development.

The county owes thanks to a progressive Chamber of Commerce with no vision for the future except profitability for its members. And Chairman Harper, whose political base is largest among Chamber and Growth Council members, should be congratulated for helping make Henry County a developer’s dream.

GA Public Policy Foundation

2006-02-12T12:23:00.000-05:00

GPPF on the Commuter Rail

Benita Dodd has written a great article on the proposed commuter rail line. Ms. Dodd is the Vice President of the Georgia Public Policy Foundation.

Read her article, Commuter Rail Line's Supporters Off Track, in its entirety

at Jason Pye's blog.

Taxpayers Betrayed

2006-02-11T06:04:00.000-05:00

Henry taxpayers were betrayed. Some Henry officials must recognize their first obligation is to the public, and not to any special interest. Any commitment other than honorable public service ruins their credibility. On February 7 they violated our trust.

Harper, Adams and Holder voted to kill a referendum on whether voters could approve financing a 50-year multi-million dollar tax subsidy. They followed a meaningless rationale that “Henry County does not have a dog in this race.” The tie vote killed official support for House Bill 1033, which would guarantee a vote.

At the same time the Henry Chamber of Commerce announced support for the Lovejoy rail line, commission chairman Jason Harper joined Clayton chairman Eldrin Bell in support for it. Harper put “Henry’s Dog” in the race even though a groundswell of opposition already existed. Maintaining Henry’s Dog will cost $5 million up-front and about $540,000 annually. This dog does bite!

District 4 commissioner Gerry Adams should have abstained as an ethics issue. As a current employee of the Clayton County Airport, Eldrin Bell essentially signs his paycheck. Did Adams betray Henry taxpayers to appease his boss in Clayton?

It is not the job of taxpayers to subsidize private industry. It is not the job of elected officials to use our money to appease their benefactors. The Lovejoy rail, and eventually the Hampton stop, will probably not happen if voters are allowed a voice. But the moneyed interests who stand to profit also want taxpayers to pay for it. So, their lieutenants were obliged to rally against official support for a referendum.

The practice of using influence with elected officials to obtain preferential treatment is common in politics. So-called power is derived from available money and endorsements. If only power brokers did not have access to tax money. But providing tax money or official policies to favored projects is exactly how some politicians repay their supporters. The cycle usually works, until taxpayers become tired of the abuse.

Some might call this situation a legal corruption of good government. No traceable money changes hands. No proof of conspiracy exists. But you can bet that a politician who grants desires for a politically active business association will have their undying support. All that is needed is a blank check the taxpayers will have to cash.

When bonds are issued, citizens vote. When a SPLOST is proposed, citizens vote. When general funds are used we expect the highest benefit for every dollar. A local governing authority has great latitude, but there are limits to what officials can ethically do. Exceeding or abusing those limits undermines public faith, and gives us bad policy decisions.

Rep. Lunsford, sponsor of HB 1033, said, “It's really not about a commuter rail line as much as it is about rights and justice." Contact him at john.lunsford@house.ga.gov. We want to vote!

Developers: 2, Homebuyers: 0

2006-02-10T06:41:00.000-05:00

Just Bad Legislation!

As proposed, developers are granted more power and subject to less accountability than the top-ranking elected official in any county in Georgia.

The proposed legislation, offered in the House by state Rep. Larry O'Neal (R-Warner Robins) and in the Senate by Sen. Cecil Staton (R-Macon), is a sparkling jewel for developers, lenders and county-government politicians.

Home buyers, meanwhile, pay property taxes twice. They pay for their own infrastructure with taxes over which elected officials have no control. And they pay the debt and upkeep on everybody else's through separate county-levied property taxes.

House Bill 1323
By: Representatives O`Neal of the 146th, Keen of the 179th, Royal of the 171st, and Porter of the 143rd
(http://www.legis.ga.gov/legis/2005_06/search/hb1323.htm)

Senate Bill 414
By: Senators Staton of the 18th, Chapman of the 3rd, Whitehead, Sr. of the 24th, Carter of the 13th, Grant of the 25th and others
(http://www.legis.ga.gov/legis/2005_06/fulltext/sb414.htm)

JIM WOOTEN – AJC
Published on: 02/19/06
http://www.ajc.com/opinion/content/opinion/wooten/stories/021906.html

Conservatives set out to privatize government. But a revolutionary bill in this year's General Assembly governmentizes the private sector.

The "Georgia Smart Infrastructure Growth Act of 2006," is pending before the House. A similar bill, the "Rural Georgia Economic Development Act of 2006," has been introduced in the Senate.
The powers of government given to developers are sweeping. The protections for consumers are virtually nil.

Both bills are intended to spur large-scale residential development. Developers would borrow money tax free to build roads, recreational and other facilities, schools, fire stations and most anything else. The debt is the equivalent of a mortgage of up to 40 years applied to every home sold. Default on fees and assessments, however unreasonable, and your home's on the auction block.

Protections for home buyers? Two — neither particularly meaningful. One protection is that within 10 years, a measure of self-government passes to homeowners. Another is that property buyers are required to acknowledge that the "infrastructure development district may impose and levy taxes or assessments, or both taxes and assessments, on this property."

Not reveal how much. Not how long. Not terms of management contracts or leases that could bleed future homeowners. Nor is there any accounting for whether the charges levied against homeowners for facilities and services are fair and reasonable. The consumer protections amount to buyer beware.

The proposed legislation, offered in the House by state Rep. Larry O'Neal (R-Warner Robins) and in the Senate by Sen. Cecil Staton (R-Macon), is a sparkling jewel for developers, lenders and county-government politicians.

Lenders have virtually no risk; if the development fails, they take the property and the improvements. Developers are czars who set and levy fees for facilities and services.

County officials, who must approve the projects, have entered a pact with the devil. They get the project and all the taxable property therein added to the tax rolls at little or no cost.

Home buyers, meanwhile, pay property taxes twice. They pay for their own infrastructure with taxes over which elected officials have no control. And they pay the debt and upkeep on everybody else's through separate county-levied property taxes.

The concept is not entirely new. It's drawn from a Florida law on the books for more than 20 years. By now, some 300 such developments have been approved.

One of the most popular is The Villages, a 23,000-acre retirement community in Central Florida. At the 2000 census, its population was 8,333. Now it's estimated at 57,000 and growing by 400 per month. By 2010, the population is expected to reach 100,000, according to its chamber. It offers all the amenities that middle- class retirees could want. A clean, safe community offering dawn-to-dark activities has appeal for which they are willing to pay. That is the free market at work.

With honest, reputable developers, the risks are minimal. But laws should protect home buyers from crooks and scoundrels.

In 10 years, of course, control will pass to residents. But the first chance homeowners have to replace a developer appointee is "within six months of the sale to the general public of land representing 50 percent of the geographic area . . . " Geographic area. It's not until six months after 80 percent of the geographic area — not excluding set-asides — is sold that homeowners have the first opportunity to gain a board majority.

One protection that's definitely needed: Disclosure. Before potential purchasers close on contracts, they should know of the existence and terms of all leases — recreational facilities, for example — and management contracts and agreements for which they are to be financially obligated.

They should know, too, how much debt they assume for infrastructure and amenities. I would argue, too, that upon achieving majority control of the board, the homeowners association should be able to terminate contracts deemed not to have been fairly drawn between parties of equal standing.

As proposed, developers are granted more power and subject to less accountability than the top-ranking elected official in any county in Georgia. Better think long and hard about this one, boys.

Kay Has Gotta Go!

2006-02-05T11:07:00.000-05:00

Pushing political buttons, creating discord is Ms. Pippin’s trademark

You can be sincere and still be very wrong. Such is the case with the leadership at the Chamber of Commerce. They have opposed, and tried to kill any hope of, a referendum on financing a commuter rail. Executive Director Kay Pippin sent emails to Chamber members soliciting “strength in numbers” to prevent taxpayers from voting. It would appear the stated vision, to be the most respected voice of business in Henry County, was betrayed.

Americans place trust in respected authority figures. The Henry Chamber is even financed with local tax dollars. Under Ms. Pippin’s direction, and claiming to speak for all 800 dues-paying members, they determined that taxpayers should not be allowed to vote on a 50-year multi-million dollar tax subsidy. No, only the Chamber and politicians they can influence are entitled to make such a decision.

The governor’s Congestion Mitigation Task Force came up with computer modeling that has won approvals at the state Department of Transportation, the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority and Governor Perdue. Under a preliminary ARC test of the formula, the controversial commuter rail to Lovejoy fell off the construction list, said John Orr at the ARC. David Doss, chairman of the state Transportation Board, said this approach may dump hundreds of unworthy transportation projects and political pork.

Animosity between the Chamber’s executive director and our elected legislators is well known. Ms. Pippin was unsuccessful in her 2000 campaign for state representative. Although John Lunsford won that election, Ms. Pippin has remained his adversary. Rep. Lunsford, Senior Republican Hawk in the state House, sponsored HB 1033 requiring a referendum. Rep. Steve Davis, an outspoken opponent of the rail, has also experienced the wrath of Ms. Pippin. Rep. Davis is Deputy Majority Whip and sits on the House Transportation Committee.

Pushing political buttons and creating discord is Ms. Pippin’s trademark. District II Commissioner Mathis has a problem that the Chamber has “chosen the other side of the fence.” District III Commissioner Stamey also strongly supports the taxpayers’ right to vote on the issue.

The Chamber Board of Directors voted unanimously to oppose a referendum. Taxpayers and citizens of Henry County are owed a sincere public apology. They should reverse their position and notify state officials they were wrong and misguided. Otherwise they have no right to support from us. No tax money, and a boycott of member businesses is what they deserve.

Our Chamber of Commerce should fill a progressive, powerful role for the good of Henry County and the region. The Chamber must regain its position of respect, honesty and fair dealing. It is beneath their stature to promote unworthy transportation projects and political pork.

Our communities thrive when citizens, business associations and elected officials recognize value in differing opinions – yet never use backroom treachery to disenfranchise the citizenry. Animosity and adversarial conflict prove that Ms. Pippin is the wrong person to represent Henry County in any capacity.

Repaving Henry

2006-02-05T10:53:00.000-05:00

Steve Davis
Georgia House of Representatives

News Release -- February 4, 2006

Repaving Henry County in 2006!

Representative Davis is pleased to announce the list of roads that have been funded in the 2006 amended budget for repaving in Henry County. As we need many widening projects in Henry County and our Growth continues to wear on existing roads Representative Steve Davis, Representative John Lunsford, and Senator John Douglas went to work after the announcement of the Governor for more LARP funding. Both Davis and Douglas serve on their respective Transportation Committees and pushed Henry County projects to the forefront of this fantastic transportation initiative.

"These new projects coupled with the Fast Forward Project for our interstates and state highways, we should see significant road improvements moving in Henry County", said Rep Davis. "I believe we are finally putting Henry County on the map with our extreme needs here in Henry County and with additional influence at the Capitol we are getting our needs addressed", said Senator Douglas. Rep Lunsford concluded by saying, "the leadership at the Capitol has recognized the critical needs of our community by placing the key members of our delegation in influential positions to positively impact our transportation needs and the quality of live in our community."

Earlier this year Governor Sonny Perdue unveiled “Paving the Way Home,” a historic transportation funding initiative under which all 159 counties in Georgia will receive funds for local transportation improvements. Governor Perdue’s budget recommendation includes a record $234 million over two years.

“One of Georgia’s greatest assets is its transportation infrastructure,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “We’re investing a record amount of funding for local transportation projects, which will positively affect citizens’ quality of life and Georgia’s ability to attract new business to the state.”
The following road repaving projects in Henry County will be let April 21, 2006 with completion requirements within 6 months! There will also be a list of State Aide projects funded in the FY06 amended budget soon.

Burnt Hickory Ct
Kensington Tr (Parkside Subdivision)
Tina Heely Ct (Glynn Addy Subdivision)
Flippen Rd
Rosenwald Cir

Brown Ave
Henry St
Dickerson St
Steeplechase Dr
King Blvd
Lemon Pl

Steele Dr
Lower Woolsey Rd
Cape Charles Ave
Elm St

Leguin Mill Rd
North Indian Creek Rd/ aka New St/ aka Frances Ward Dr

Jonesboro Road (from Clayton Co line to Chambers Rd)
Oak Grove Rd (all)
Price Quarters Rd
North Green Cir

Additional Transportation announcement will follow as specific details become available with funding the FY07 budget.

Representative Steve Davis
District 109 - Henry County
GA House of Representatives

New ARC Formula

2006-02-05T08:01:00.000-05:00

Congestion may trump other road priorities
By ARIEL HART
The Atlanta Journal-ConstitutionPublished on: 02/04/06

Points:
1. Indeed, under a rudimentary ARC guesstimate run of the formula, the controversial commuter rail to Lovejoy fell off the construction list, said John Orr at the ARC.

2. The formula is a mathematical approach to ranking which transportation projects are needed first. While it has whizzed through approvals at the state Department of Transportation and the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority, a committee at the ARC, which would apply it, put on the brakes.

3. Applying the new formula may dump hundreds of unworthy transportation projects and political pork

4. The formulas have powerful backing. Gov. Sonny Perdue lauded the task force

MaryTodd-Rail-Chamber

2006-02-03T20:43:00.000-05:00

The following is from Mary Todd:

In the Republic of these United States we have the ability to choose Representation in government, a true freedom. These representatives listen to the concerns of their constituents to govern. Representative Lunsford, Representative Davis and Senator Douglas have listened to the Henry County citizens and support a referendum on the proposed commuter rail line. Kay Pippin on the other hand is running the chamber without listening to all the membership. The Chamber’s Board needs to fully examine the membership’s desires by polling them. It would be interesting to see how the rank and file would vote. Perhaps it would be supportive but broad backing is waning for the commuter rail as it has been presented. The blank check policy Kay Pippin and the closed door policy makers of the chamber might be surprised at the results of asking their membership what is wanted in Henry County.

It is time to change the face of the Chamber with a more responsive less totalitarian leadership.

The amount of animosity between the elected state delegation and the Chamber’s leadership is amazing and shameful. It stems from Kay Pippin’s defeat for State Representative to Representative Lunsford in 2000. Pippins loss could be the problem with the lack of relationship between the two entities. Pippin finds herself at odds with the delegation and takes time to publicly brow beat them at Chamber functions. Representative Davis has been the brunt of many out lashings by Pippin over the last year due to Davis asking that all information be discussed and not just a slanted foggy view by Pippin. Recently at a Chamber breakfast function Pippin verbally thrashed Representative Lunsford for asking that the tax payers have a voice in the decision on the commuter rail line. This public beating of our elected officials when they are not there to answer the falsehoods is Pippin’s hallmark and is distasteful to say the least. Pippin is constantly finding ways to point out dissention and never offers to work with the delegation. She is the wrong person for the face of Henry County’s businesses. We need to see the Chamber look at proactive leadership for the betterment of all Henry County. Pippin’s stance is wrong and her tenure needs to end.

The irony if this is the Chamber of Commerce is supposed to be looking at how to expand the economy of Henry and not constricting it. By forcing additional taxes upon citizens they take money out of the economy.

What happens when you give people a chance to keep more of their money? The economy expands by more spending. Henry County is fast becoming known in the Atlanta metro area as an overtaxing county and by adding more taxation to subsidize the blank check Pippin offers up is absolutely wrong. Today when people struggle to pay rising heating costs, when people struggle to pay mortgages, today when they struggle to pay for higher gasoline and struggle to send their children to college or save for retirement Kay Pippin’s stance is dead wrong for the homeowners of Henry County. The last twelve quarters of economic growth and prosperity stems from President Bush’s 2003 lead tax cuts. More jobs have been created in the last three years than in Japan and Europe by not taking more taxes from the American people. Kay Pippin’s blank check for more taxes could easily cost as much as $100,000,000.00 over the life of the rail. How much money does she want to take form Home owners? The answer is not to raise taxes as Pippin desires. Spending cuts and tax cuts are a better way to improve Henry’s economy not by adding additional taxes and additional spending.

I opt to trusting the American people with their money and not levying additional burdens to pay for luxury items. You just can not take money from people by writing blank checks because Kay Pippin thinks it is a good idea and she thinks she is better able to manage our money.

It is time to voice your opinion with the Chamber of Commerce. If you see a membership sign at a business let them know how you feel about the commuter rail and Kay Pippin’s involvement. Let them know your view on openly trouncing our elected officials she is at personal odds with. Tell that business owner Kay has got to go! If that doesn’t work then vote with your dollars and boycott Chamber members businesses and tell them why.